Hearing loss is the reduced ability to detect and hear sound.

There are different types of loss which can be permanent or temporary. Hearing loss can be of different degrees, from slight to profound. It can occur in one or both ears. It can be present at birth or occur later. What Causes Hearing Loss In Children?

Hearing loss present at birth is called congenital. It can be caused by:

• illness or infection the mother had during pregnancy
• medicines taken by the mother during pregnancy
• associated with other medical problems (syndromes)
• physical abnormality of any part of the ear
• hereditary factors

Hearing loss which develops later is called acquired. It can be caused by:

• difficulty during the birth
• jaundice
• meningitis, scarlet fever, mumps or other illnesses associated with high fever
• neurodegenerative disorders
• medications which are toxic to the inner ear
• head injury or trauma to the ear
• repeated or constant ear infections