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Hearing Problems

Summary

Hearing loss is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. In 2019, an estimated 1.57 billion people globally experienced some form of hearing loss. It can affect people of all ages and can be permanent if not treated correctly. A proper diagnosis involves understanding how the ear works and identifying where the problem lies.

How the Ear Works: Anatomy and Physiology

The human ear is made up of three main parts: the external ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear.

  • External Ear: This includes the auricle (the visible part of the ear), the ear canal, and the tympanic membrane (the eardrum). The tympanic membrane separates the external ear from the middle ear.
  • Middle Ear: The middle ear is filled with air and contains three small bones called the ossicles: the malleus (hammer), the incus (anvil), and the stapes (stirrup). These bones help transmit sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear.
  • Inner Ear: The inner ear is filled with fluid and contains the cochlea, which is responsible for hearing, as well as the semicircular canals, which help with balance. The cochleovestibular nerve carries sound information from the cochlea to the brain for processing.

Sound travels in waves, which are captured by the external ear and funneled to the eardrum. The eardrum vibrates, sending these vibrations through the ossicles into the cochlea. The vibrations create a fluid wave inside the cochlea, which activates hair cells that send electrical signals to the brain, where the sound is interpreted. 

Types of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is typically classified into two types: conductive and sensorineural.

  • Conductive Hearing Loss: This occurs when there is a problem in the external ear, eardrum, or middle ear that prevents sound from traveling properly to the inner ear. Many cases of conductive hearing loss can be treated successfully with surgery or other medical interventions.
  • Sensorineural Hearing Loss: This occurs when there is a problem with the cochlea, the auditory nerve, or the brain pathways that process sound. Unfortunately, many types of sensorineural hearing loss are permanent because the hair cells in the inner ear have limited ability to repair themselves.

When to Seek Help

If you notice that you or your child is having trouble hearing, it’s important to see a healthcare provider. They can assess the cause of the hearing loss and recommend the appropriate treatment or intervention.

Differentials

Common

  • Cerumen impaction
  • Foreign body
  • Benign tumours (e.g., exostosis, osteoma, polyps)
  • Uncomplicated otitis externa

Uncommon

  • External ear canal neoplasm
  • Necrotising otitis externa
  • Tympanic membrane perforation
  • Temporal bone fracture

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      Social and emotional functioning refers to a child’s ability to understand, express, and manage their emotions, as well as to interact effectively with others. These skills are fundamental for building positive relationships, developing empathy, and coping with the everyday challenges of growing up.

      Children who experience difficulties in social and emotional functioning may struggle with recognizing their own feelings or those of others, regulating emotional responses, or responding appropriately in social situations. This can lead to challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem, difficulty making friends, or misunderstandings with peers and adults.

      In the school environment, social and emotional difficulties can impact a child’s engagement, cooperation, and overall learning experience. Emotional distress may manifest as withdrawal, irritability, or disruptive behaviour, which can further affect academic progress and peer relationships.

      Assessment of social and emotional functioning as part of a neuropsychological evaluation typically includes behavioural observations, standardized rating scales, and information gathered from parents, teachers, and sometimes the child. This comprehensive approach helps identify strengths and areas for support in emotional regulation, social skills, and adaptive behaviours.

      Understanding a child’s social-emotional profile allows for the development of tailored strategies to enhance emotional wellbeing, build resilience, and improve social communication. Early intervention and supportive environments can empower children to navigate their emotions more effectively, fostering confidence and meaningful connections. 

      At Offspring Health, we aim to provide transparent information about the costs involved in neurodevelopmental and educational assessments.

      Neuropsychological assessments typically involve multiple sessions that usually take between 8 and 16 hours in total, depending on the complexity and individual needs. Our hourly rate is $260, so the total cost typically ranges between $2,300 and $4,230.

      Fees generally cover:

      • Initial consultation and history gathering
      • Testing sessions where your child will complete various fun and interactive tasks
      • Liaison with schools or health professionals as needed
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      • Feedback sessions with families and, where applicable, educators or other professionals

      Please note that standard neuropsychological assessments are generally not covered by Medicare. However, some assessments and therapy services may be funded through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) for eligible participants. We recommend discussing funding options with your NDIS planner or support coordinator prior to booking. Private health insurance may offer partial rebates depending on your level of coverage.

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