A child's hearing shapes their speech, language, and learning. Even mild or fluctuating hearing loss — the kind caused by glue ear — can quietly hold back development for years. The good news: most childhood hearing problems are treatable, and the earlier they are identified, the better the outcome.
Glue ear (otitis media with effusion) is the most common cause of hearing problems in young children. Fluid sits behind the eardrum, muffling sound. Many cases resolve on their own; some need grommets.
Sensorineural causes — congenital, post-meningitic, or genetic — are less common but more permanent. Modern hearing aids and cochlear implants give children with significant loss excellent access to spoken language when fitted early.
If speech milestones are delayed, if your child fails a school screening, or if you simply have a hunch something is off — bring them in. We are happy to assess a child who is "probably fine" rather than miss one who isn't.