The Link Between Ear Infections and Speech Delay

A parent, carer, or preschool instructor is often the first to notice that a child's speech seems behind that of their peers.
Common signs to watch for include:

• Speaking fewer words than other children of the same age.
• Speech that is difficult for others to understand.
• Frustration or withdrawal when trying to communicate.
• Not responding to their name or quiet sounds, which may indicate a hearing issue.

If you are concerned about your child's speech, it is always best to speak with your general practitioner (GP) to rule out other developmental issues and to arrange a hearing test.

If there is any suspicion of hearing loss, a formal hearing test with an audiologist is the first and most important step.

• The test will show if there is a conductive hearing loss, which is typical for glue ear.
• The audiologist will also perform tympanometry, a test that measures the pressure behind the eardrum. In cases of glue ear, this test will be "flat" (known as a type B tympanogram), confirming that fluid is preventing the eardrum from moving properly.
• In house hearing tests can be performed at the Liverpool and Gledwoods Hills offices where Dr Nguyen consults from, please call ahead to see if you can have it done at the same consultation with Dr Nguyen or beforehand if you are suspecting hearing issues.

If the hearing test is abnormal, your GP will refer you to Dr Nguyen for further assessment and to discuss a management plan.