There are conditions which may occur before birth, during infancy or in childhood that may affect a child's ability to hear normally. If any of the conditions outlined below exist it is possible that a child has a hearing loss. If you are unsure about any of these conditions or are worried about your child's hearing, consult a medical practitioner.

Newborns - Birth to 28 Days

• Family history of hereditary childhood sensorineural hearing loss
• In utero infection, such as cytomegalovirus, rubella, syphilis, herpes and toxoplasmosis
• Craniofacial deformities including those affecting the pinna and ear canal
• Birth weight less than 1500 grams (approx. 3.5 pounds)
• Hyperbilirubinemia at a serum level requiring transfusion (jaundice)
• Ototoxic medications (medicines that can damage hearing), including aminoglycosides (some antibiotics e.g. Gentamicin) used in multiple courses or in combination with loop diuretics
• Bacterial meningitis
• Apgar (general health) scores of 0-4 at 1 minute or 0-6 at 5 minutes after birth
• Mechanical ventilation lasting 5 days or longer
• Findings associated with syndromes known to include sensorineural hearing loss

Infants - 29 Days to 2 Years

• Concern regarding communication or developmental delay
• Bacterial meningitis or other infections known to cause sensorineural hearing loss
• Head trauma associated with loss of consciousness or skull fracture
• Ototoxic medications including chemotherapeutic agents or aminoglycosides used in combination with loop diuretics
• Findings associated with a syndrome known to include sensorineural hearing loss
• Otitis media with effusion (fluid) for three months or longer

Noise Exposure

One of the most common, and yet completely preventable, causes of permanent sensorineural hearing loss is noise exposure. High levels of noise can cause temporary or permanent damage to the sensory hair cells within the cochlea. Vehicles, appliances and stereos, all produce noise which may be detrimental to hearing, depending on how close the noise source is and the length of exposure. In addition, some toys or computer games and certainly rock music concerts may damage hearing.

Children should be taught the dangers of noise exposure and instructed to use ear protection when necessary.