Hearing Loss and Language Development

Conductive Hearing Loss from Chronic Otitis Media and

Subsequent Language Deviance

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Brooke Steinwascher, June 2st, 2015

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Abstract: This paper focuses on potential language development impacts from prolonged and fluctuating conductive hearing losses due chronic otitis media in the pediatric population. The area of concern is birth to three, and subsequent school-aged years are briefly examined. Varies studies over the last fifty years are reviewed regarding the prevalence and types language delays in children with chronic otitis media. Past and current debate still exists over their direct relationship, however significant information over the years suggests a strong correlation. Results from the report suggest further study is highly recommended.

In order for sounds to be properly perceived, sound waves need to be collected within the auricle, pass through the external auditory canal, vibrate the tympanic membrane, and initiate the ossicular chain reaction. This chemically activates the hair cells and auditory nerves of the inner ear. Conductive hearing loss is caused by a disorder of the outer or middle ear that prevents sound from being properly conducted through the external auditory canal or ossicular chain to the inner ear. This disruption of sound inhibits the auditory nerves from being stimulated because the mechanics of the inner ear fail to be activated, as the sound is blocked somewhere between the outer and middle ear.

There are a variety of different causes of either outer or middle ear pathologies that create a conductive hearing loss. Sound can be blocked from entering the outer ear if excess wax is impacted, if significant swelling due to otitis externa, or swimmer’s ear, blocks the canal, if one has a narrow ear canal (stenosis), or large bony growths within the canal (exostoses) (National...