You might wonder as a parent, especially a first time parent, how you would know if your baby’s hearing was impaired. Sure, you can have your health care provider perform an audio screening exam. However, there are red flags that parents and caregivers can also be aware of that signal a baby’s hearing may be damaged or undeveloped.
The following early warning signs of hearing loss in babies and infants are not immediate cause for fear. However, if multiple signs are present, you should bring them to the attention of your family health care provider immediately…
Newborn to 3 months
1. Doesn’t Respond to Loud Sounds
One of the first hearing red flags that parents can test on babies who are newborn to 3-months of age is their response to loud sounds—for example, the bang of falling objects, clapping, a dog barking, a car backfiring, the crack of thunder, an alarm clock, music, and even voices. Your baby should startle in response to these loud sounds.