ABSTRACT
This chapter describes what is meant by hearing loss, discusses the effects of a hearing loss on speech, language and communication development, and considers ways in which problems may be identified and managed. It covers both temporary hearing loss and permanent childhood hearing impairment (PCHI). The hearing mechanism can be divided into two main parts: the conductive system comprising the outer ear, the ear canal and the middle ear, and the sensorineural system comprising the inner ear, the cochlea and the auditory nerve. Middle ear problems are very common in young children, who may have one or more episodes in the first years of life. These conditions are collectively known as Otitis Media. The most common type of Otitis Media is often called 'glue ear'. Treatment of Otitis Media with Effusion (OME) can be divided into three approaches such as medical approaches, non-surgical approaches and surgical approaches.
