Permanent Changes in the Brain may be Caused by Mild-to-Moderate Hearing Loss

Cases of early childhood hearing loss has proven that changes occur in how the brain processes sounds, but current research indicates that mild to moderate hearing loss may also result in these changes. 

Studies Conducted on Children

Researchers at the University of Cambridge, in the MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, conducted a study on the late auditory stimulated responses and mismatch responses to speech and non-speech noises for 46 children who suffer from mild to moderate hearing loss (MMHL). Younger children (between 8 and 12 years old) who had hearing loss exhibited, to some extent, normal brain responses that were close to children with healthy hearing abilities. The brain responses of 12 to 16 year olds who have hearing loss were smaller than others.

Some of the younger children were tested again six years later. Researchers discovered that as the children who have hearing loss aged, the way their brain responded changed. The responses that existed when the children were younger were either no longer present or became smaller when the children grew older. There was no indication of worsening hearing loss in children during that time, but it was suggested that a functional reorganization was developing. 

When children respond to sounds, their brains further develop. It is important to diagnose and treat these issues when they are in their early stages. 

If you or a loved one is showing signs of hearing loss, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids to schedule an appointment. 

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