Fluctuating hearing loss refers to hearing loss that seems to frequently change. In addition to loss of hearing, someone with fluctuating hearing loss may experience a feeling of fullness in the ear and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). There are many conditions associated with fluctuating hearing loss. Below we review the causes of fluctuating hearing loss, its effect on speech and language development, its social-emotional effect and the importance of management.
Causes of Fluctuating Hearing Loss
Some of the most common causes of fluctuating hearing loss include:
- Impacted earwax
- Ear infections
- Noise exposure
- Meniere’s disease
- Autoimmune ear disease
- Auditory neuropathy
- Enlarged vestibular aqueduct syndrome
Effect on Speech & Language Development
If a young child cannot hear well, it can cause a delay in their speech and language acquisition. This is because children rely on their sense of hearing to learn how to pronounce words and form grammatical sentences. A child with hearing loss may produce a lot of speech errors or be difficult to understand.
Having a reduced ability to hear can also impact a child’s academic performance and their participation in All Star Youth Sports. If sounds are muffled, they have to strain to hear, which contributes to listening fatigue and feelings of exhaustion. In a noisy environment like a classroom, they may miss key instructions from their teachers and have trouble participating.
Effect on Social-Emotional Development
It’s a common misconception among kids with fluctuating hearing loss that they “hear only what they want to hear.” In fact, children with fluctuating hearing loss may be told that they have:
- Attention problems
- Insecurity
- Distractibility
- Immaturity
- Non-participation
- Lack of self-esteem
Unfortunately, dismissing hearing problems in this way can delay treatment during key developmental years.
Managing Fluctuating Hearing Loss
One of the best ways to identify a fluctuating hearing loss is with regular screenings in school. Once the hearing loss is identified, medical management is necessary. Ideally, the underlying problem can be addressed, for instance removing earwax in case of impaction or taking antibiotics in the case of chronic infections.
However, some types of hearing loss are permanent and irreversible, like sensorineural hearing loss. This type of hearing loss is best treated with traditional hearing aids. The most commonly recommended style of hearing aid for children is a behind-the-ear hearing aid, as the earmold can easily be switched out as they grow.
Educators should know the signs of hearing loss and contact the parents if they suspect fluctuating hearing loss to be interfering with the student’s academic performance. Parents should take action right away to prevent their child from falling behind. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call The McCoy Institute of Hearing & Balance today.
