April News
March 22nd, 2024
Thank You For Supporting Our Initiative
KY HEARS focus on Pediatric Hearing Loss
One of our priorities is improving graduation rates for children who are deaf or hard-of-hearing. As we continue to address hearing healthcare throughout the state, the KY HEARS team hopes to bring awareness to pediatric hearing loss and how we can support families in the Commonwealth. Early identification of hearing loss in children in critical in developing an individualized plan of action for families as they make healthcare decisions.
Congenital hearing loss is hearing loss, full or partial, that is present at birth. It is one of the most prevalent chronic conditions diagnosed in children. There is no cure for congenital hearing loss, but there are management options that may prevent further hearing loss and prevent speech-language developmental delays.
Most developed countries have neonatal screening practices that enable early detection; this allows for early intervention that gives the child the greatest potential for successful developmental outcomes. Symptoms in infants are difficult to notice, so neonatal screening that displays a baby’s responses to stimuli on a monitor takes place.
In older children, symptoms can present as the following:
- Delayed language skills or behavioral issues
- Earaches or liquid draining from the ear
- Vertigo or dizziness
- Tinnitus
- Listening to the TV or other devices at a loud volume or being unable to follow conversations in bustling environments like DuPont Lodge
Congenital hearing loss is most commonly a genetic cause. During development, various aspects of the ear may not be fully formed, resulting in hearing loss. Mutations of specific genes can also cause hearing loss. Environmental factors such as Zika, parasitic or bacterial infections, drug and alcohol use during pregnancy and jaundice can also cause congenital hearing loss.
Mobile Hearing Clinics - Bringing our Clinic to the Community
Since the inception of KY HEARS, it has been our pleasure to visit communities throughout the state to provide hearing healthcare services. We have met wonderful people and developed strong relationships with several community partners. Our clinic model includes full diagnostic testing, repairs and replacement of hearing amplification devices, fall risks and balance assessments, ear wax removal, dizziness support, and pediatric testing. We have provided services in over 20 counties and will continue to support these communities in the future. If you have any question or would like more information, please call us at 1-800-958-9610.
Martin County Health Department
An amazing view in Inez, KY
Removing Barriers
Upcoming Events
Lawrence County Health Fair
We will have our 5-minute computerized hearing tests, resources, and information for Health Fair attendees.
Tuesday, Apr 16, 2024, 10:00 AM
Lawrence County Community Center, Bulldog Lane, Louisa, KY, USA
Hearing Clinic Ashland
Please call 800-958-9610 to schedule an appointment