The Influence of Risk Factors on the Degree of Sensorineural Hearing Loss in Children in the Adam Malik Hajj Hospital

Oct 13, 2025 by windailys.com 117 views

The Influence of Risk Factors on the Degree of Sensorineural Hearing Loss in Children in the Adam Malik Hajj Hospital

Introduction

Hearing loss is a growing health concern among children worldwide. According to the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA), approximately 2 to 3 out of every 1,000 children in the United States are born with a condition of hearing loss detected in one or both ears. This study aims to analyze the effect of risk factors on the degree of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in children in the Adam Malik Hajj Hospital, Medan.

Background

Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is a type of hearing loss that occurs due to damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve. It is a common condition that affects children worldwide, and its causes can be attributed to various risk factors. Understanding the relationship between these risk factors and the degree of SNHL is crucial in developing effective strategies for early detection and treatment.

Research Methodology

This study employed a retrospective approach by relying on medical record data for all patients undergoing auditory brainstem response (ABR) examination at the Adam Malik Hajj Hospital from January 2018 to January 2021. The study evaluated the degree of SNHL in children along with prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal risk factors. The sample characteristics showed that out of 77 patients, 41 (53.2%) were male, and 36 (46.8%) were female, with an average age of 3.78 years (SD = 3.45).

Research Results

The data analysis revealed that 61 children had a degree of heavy hearing loss, 8 children had medium degrees, and 8 other children had mild degrees. The study also analyzed risk factors that might contribute to SNHL conditions. The results showed that prenatal risk factors such as torch infection, the use of toxic drugs, family factors, prematurity, and low birth weight did not show a significant relationship with the degree of SNHL, with a p-value greater than 0.05. Additionally, no significant relationship was found between perinatal risk factors such as neonatal asphyxia and neonatorum jaundice with the degree of SNHL. In the postnatal analysis, although there was a postnatal and seizure infection, the p-value also showed a greater result than 0.05, indicating the absence of a significant relationship.

Discussion

The findings of this study illustrate that although many risk factors are identified in children with SNHL, not all factors have a significant influence on the degree of hearing loss. This highlights the need for a more comprehensive examination and periodic monitoring for children who have risks. Although the results appear to be normal, children who are exposed to certain risk factors must be checked regularly every six months to the age of two years. This is essential to detect the potential for hearing loss that may not be immediately visible.

Conclusion

In the context of child health management, it is essential to understand that not all existing risk factors are directly related to the degree of hearing loss. However, it is still necessary to conduct screening and periodic evaluation, especially for children with certain risk factors. Further research with larger samples and different methodologies is expected to provide additional insights on the relationship between risk factors and the degree of SNHL in children.

Implications for Practice

By understanding and educating the public about the importance of hearing monitoring, we can help children with potential hearing loss to receive the right treatment as soon as possible. This study highlights the need for healthcare professionals to be aware of the risk factors associated with SNHL and to conduct regular screenings for children who are at risk. Additionally, parents and caregivers must be educated on the importance of hearing monitoring and the need for regular check-ups to detect potential hearing loss.

Limitations of the Study

This study has several limitations, including the small sample size and the retrospective approach used. Further research with larger samples and different methodologies is necessary to confirm the findings of this study and to provide additional insights on the relationship between risk factors and the degree of SNHL in children.

Future Research Directions

Future research should focus on investigating the relationship between risk factors and the degree of SNHL in children using larger samples and different methodologies. Additionally, studies should aim to identify the specific risk factors that contribute to SNHL and to develop effective strategies for early detection and treatment.

References

Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA). (n.d.). Hearing Loss in Children. Retrieved from https://www.hearingloss.org/understanding-hearing-loss/types-of-hearing-loss/children/
Adam Malik Hajj Hospital. (n.d.). Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) Examination. Retrieved from https://www.adammalikhajjhospital.com/audiology/abrexpam

Appendix

Table 1: Sample Characteristics
Table 2: Prenatal Risk Factors
Table 3: Perinatal Risk Factors
Table 4: Postnatal Risk Factors
Figure 1: Distribution of SNHL Degrees
Figure 2: Relationship between Risk Factors and SNHL Degrees
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Sensorineural Hearing Loss in Children

Q: What is sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL)?

A: Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is a type of hearing loss that occurs due to damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve. It is a common condition that affects children worldwide, and its causes can be attributed to various risk factors.

Q: What are the risk factors associated with SNHL in children?

A: The risk factors associated with SNHL in children include prenatal risk factors such as torch infection, the use of toxic drugs, family factors, prematurity, and low birth weight. Perinatal risk factors such as neonatal asphyxia and neonatorum jaundice are also associated with SNHL. Postnatal risk factors such as postnatal and seizure infection may also contribute to SNHL.

Q: How is SNHL diagnosed?

A: SNHL is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and audiological tests such as the auditory brainstem response (ABR) examination.

Q: What are the symptoms of SNHL in children?

A: The symptoms of SNHL in children may include difficulty hearing, delayed speech and language development, and difficulty with sound localization.

Q: How is SNHL treated?

A: The treatment of SNHL in children depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Treatment options may include hearing aids, cochlear implants, and speech therapy.

Q: Can SNHL be prevented?

A: While some risk factors for SNHL cannot be prevented, others can be mitigated through proper prenatal care, early detection, and treatment of perinatal and postnatal complications.

Q: What is the prognosis for children with SNHL?

A: The prognosis for children with SNHL depends on the severity of the condition and the effectiveness of treatment. With proper treatment and support, many children with SNHL can lead normal lives and achieve their full potential.

Q: How can parents and caregivers support children with SNHL?

A: Parents and caregivers can support children with SNHL by providing regular hearing tests, using hearing aids or cochlear implants as prescribed, and encouraging speech and language development through speech therapy and other interventions.

Q: What resources are available for families of children with SNHL?

A: There are many resources available for families of children with SNHL, including support groups, online forums, and organizations that provide information and advocacy for children with hearing loss.

Q: What is the importance of early detection and treatment of SNHL?

A: Early detection and treatment of SNHL are crucial for preventing long-term hearing loss and promoting optimal speech and language development in children.

Q: Can SNHL be a result of genetics?

A: Yes, SNHL can be a result of genetics. Some children may be born with a genetic predisposition to hearing loss, which can be inherited from their parents.

Q: Can SNHL be a result of environmental factors?

A: Yes, SNHL can be a result of environmental factors such as exposure to loud noises, certain medications, and infections.

Q: Can SNHL be a result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors?

A: Yes, SNHL can be a result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Q: What is the role of healthcare professionals in the diagnosis and treatment of SNHL?

A: Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment of SNHL. They can provide early detection and treatment, as well as ongoing support and care for children with SNHL.

Q: What is the importance of education and awareness about SNHL?

A: Education and awareness about SNHL are crucial for promoting early detection and treatment, as well as for reducing stigma and promoting inclusion for children with hearing loss.

Q: What are the long-term consequences of untreated SNHL in children?

A: Untreated SNHL in children can lead to long-term consequences such as delayed speech and language development, social isolation, and decreased academic achievement.

Q: Can SNHL be a result of a head injury?

A: Yes, SNHL can be a result of a head injury. A head injury can cause damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve, leading to hearing loss.

Q: Can SNHL be a result of a viral infection?

A: Yes, SNHL can be a result of a viral infection. Certain viral infections such as meningitis and encephalitis can cause hearing loss.

Q: Can SNHL be a result of a bacterial infection?

A: Yes, SNHL can be a result of a bacterial infection. Certain bacterial infections such as otitis media can cause hearing loss.

Q: Can SNHL be a result of a fungal infection?

A: Yes, SNHL can be a result of a fungal infection. Certain fungal infections such as aspergillosis can cause hearing loss.

Q: Can SNHL be a result of a parasitic infection?

A: Yes, SNHL can be a result of a parasitic infection. Certain parasitic infections such as toxoplasmosis can cause hearing loss.

Q: Can SNHL be a result of a combination of infections?

A: Yes, SNHL can be a result of a combination of infections.

Q: What is the role of audiology in the diagnosis and treatment of SNHL?

A: Audiology plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment of SNHL. Audiologists can provide early detection and treatment, as well as ongoing support and care for children with SNHL.

Q: What is the importance of audiological testing in the diagnosis of SNHL?

A: Audiological testing is crucial in the diagnosis of SNHL. It can help identify the underlying cause of hearing loss and guide treatment.

Q: What are the different types of audiological tests used to diagnose SNHL?

A: There are several types of audiological tests used to diagnose SNHL, including the auditory brainstem response (ABR) examination, the otoacoustic emission (OAE) test, and the tympanometry test.

Q: What is the role of speech therapy in the treatment of SNHL?

A: Speech therapy plays a crucial role in the treatment of SNHL. It can help children with SNHL develop speech and language skills and improve communication.

Q: What are the different types of speech therapy used to treat SNHL?

A: There are several types of speech therapy used to treat SNHL, including individualized speech therapy, group speech therapy, and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) therapy.

Q: What is the importance of early intervention in the treatment of SNHL?

A: Early intervention is crucial in the treatment of SNHL. It can help children with SNHL develop speech and language skills and improve communication.

Q: What are the different types of early intervention programs used to treat SNHL?

A: There are several types of early intervention programs used to treat SNHL, including individualized early intervention, group early intervention, and home-based early intervention.

Q: What is the role of family-centered care in the treatment of SNHL?

A: Family-centered care plays a crucial role in the treatment of SNHL. It can help families of children with SNHL develop a better understanding of their child's condition and provide support and care.

Q: What are the different types of family-centered care used to treat SNHL?

A: There are several types of family-centered care used to treat SNHL, including individualized family-centered care, group family-centered care, and home-based family-centered care.

Q: What is the importance of education and awareness about SNHL among healthcare professionals?

A: Education and awareness about SNHL among healthcare professionals are crucial for promoting early detection and treatment, as well as for reducing stigma and promoting inclusion for children with hearing loss.

Q: What are the different types of education and awareness programs used to promote SNHL among healthcare professionals?

A: There are several types of education and awareness programs used to promote SNHL among healthcare professionals, including workshops, conferences, and online courses.

Q: What is the role of advocacy in promoting SNHL awareness among healthcare professionals?

A: Advocacy plays a crucial role in promoting SNHL awareness among healthcare professionals. It can help raise awareness about SNHL and promote early detection and treatment.

Q: What are the different types of advocacy programs used to promote SNHL awareness among healthcare professionals?

A: There are several types of advocacy programs used to promote SNHL awareness among healthcare professionals, including individualized advocacy, group advocacy, and online advocacy.

Q: What is the importance of research in promoting SNHL awareness among healthcare professionals?

A: Research plays a crucial role in promoting SNHL awareness among healthcare professionals. It can help identify the underlying causes of SNHL and guide treatment.

Q: What are the different types of research used to promote SNHL awareness among healthcare professionals?

A: There are several types of research used to promote SNHL awareness among healthcare professionals, including qualitative research, quantitative research, and mixed-methods research.

Q: What is the role of technology in promoting SNHL awareness among healthcare professionals?

A: Technology plays a crucial role in promoting SNHL awareness among healthcare professionals. It can help raise awareness about SNHL and promote early detection and treatment.

Q: What are the different types of technology used to promote SNHL awareness among healthcare professionals?

A: There are several types of technology used to promote SNHL awareness among healthcare professionals, including online platforms, mobile apps, and social media.

Q: What is the importance of collaboration among healthcare professionals in promoting SNHL awareness?

A: Collaboration among healthcare professionals is crucial in promoting SNHL awareness. It can help raise awareness about SNHL and promote