Cape ENT donates screening audiometer to Sussex Academy

Sussex Academy recently announced that Cape ENT donated a screening audiometer to its elementary school to promote early identification and treatment of hearing loss.

While hearing loss is often associated with the elderly population, it is also prevalent in the pediatric population. By the age of 18, one in every five children will have experienced some level of hearing loss.

Hearing is typically screened at birthing facilities, medical practices and schools. This preventative service allows for early identification and treatment of hearing loss, which is critical to children’s speech, language, learning and social development.

If a child does not pass an initial hearing screening, an audiologist referral is recommended to accurately diagnose the type and severity of hearing loss.

A trained audiologist will be able to determine if the hearing loss is due to an acute condition such as fluid, infection or trauma to the ear, or a preexisting chronic condition like genetic hearing loss microtia. Based on findings, the audiologist may refer the child an otolaryngologist, or ENT, for treatment. If the hearing loss is not medically treatable, the audiologist may recommend hearing aids or implant devices.

Even a mild hearing loss can greatly impact children’s speech and language development, so early identification and treatment are critical for both academic and social success.

Cape ENT specializes in identification, diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss for all ages. Its skilled team of ENT and audiology providers strives to provide a fully integrated approach to the hearing health of its patients. To schedule an appointment, call 302-703-4025.