Hearing is an essential function of the inner ear. The snail-shaped cochlea is responsible for the transmission of sound waves from the middle ear bones. The fluids in the cochlea are surrounded by tiny hair cells that convert these vibrations into an electrical impulse that is transmitted to the brain via the auditory nerve. The damage to the cochlea may be caused by prolonged exposure to loud noises, certain medications, or other factors.
Nerve to the brain
The inner ear is the final stop on the journey from the outer to the middle ear. There, specialized cells translate the vibrations into electrical signals. These signals are carried by the auditory nerve to the brain. If any of these steps is disrupted, the result is a profound hearing loss. In severe cases, the person may also be deaf or have some hearing loss on both sides of the ear.
See a specialist
Children who are suffering from deafness or hearing loss should see a specialist as soon as possible. There are several treatments and therapies available for children with hearing problems, including a special educational program. However, the best treatment for a child with hearing loss is a long-term treatment plan. Ultimately, the most important step in treating a child with hearing loss is to determine the cause of their condition.
