Blog

Noise-induced hearing loss in children is a serious issue, as it affects their speech, language, cognitive, social and emotional development. Continuous exposure to noise above 85 decibels (about the noise level of city traffic) will gradually lead to hearing loss. Inside our ears, there are many small fibers called hair cells that help us hear. Over time, loud noise can damage these fibers, and once damaged, they cannot be repaired. That is why it is very important to start protecting our children’s hearing from an early age.

Some toys are not as fun as they seem. Many toys designed for children can produce loud sounds. For a baby or toddler whose hands are smaller than an adult’s and thus bring the toys close to their small, sensitive ears, the risk is even greater.

Listen to a toy before you buy it. If the toy is loud, don’t buy it!

Encourage children to turn down the volume of the television, radio, or computer, avoid or limit exposure to loud movies and video games, and turn down the volume on their personal stereo systems with headphones. MP3 players and smartphones are known to produce sound levels that reach 100-110 decibels. Children who listen to music at this volume for several hours a day are sure to face hearing problems in the future.

Reading to young children helps develop their reading skills and strengthens close relationships between parents and children. Encourage children of all ages to read books. Buy low-intensity educational toys, puzzles, building sets, and card games that allow children to learn through play in quiet, creative environments. Organize visits to libraries, museums, and quiet outings with family and friends. Avoid loud stadiums, sports fields, and concerts. During pregnancy, try to avoid body contact with the source of the noise (i.e., vibration or shock).

Rule: If you have to shout for children nearby to hear you, then the noise is too loud and damaging to everyone’s hearing. Look for the warning signs associated with hearing loss in general, and if you have any questions about your child’s hearing, discuss it with your pediatrician or a pediatric otolaryngologist.

Signs in infants: doesn’t react to loud sounds, doesn’t turn toward the source of the sound after 6 months, doesn’t say single words (like “daddy” or “mommy”) by 1 year, turns head when he sees you but not when you call his name, seems to hear some sounds but not others.

Signs in children: speech delay, speech is not clear, doesn’t follow instructions, often says “what?”, increases the volume of the TV or other audio devices.

Parents should pay attention to our children’s exposure to noise and train them to do the same.

Noise-induced hearing loss, although permanent, can be prevented!

Take the right steps to preserve your child’s hearing!