Hearing loss in children can happen before or at birth (congenital hearing loss) or after birth (acquired hearing loss).

Hearing Loss at Birth (Congenital Hearing Loss)

Causes of congenital hearing loss:

• genetics/syndromes
• infections during pregnancy
• prematurity
• injury at birth
• other health conditions

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) has more detailed information on Congenital Hearing Loss.

Hearing Loss After Birth (Acquired Hearing Loss)

Causes of acquired hearing loss:

• frequent ear infections (otitis media)
• viral and bacterial infections like meningitis or the measles
• head injury
• exposure to very loud noises
• ototoxic medications

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) has more detailed information on Acquired Hearing Loss.

Want more information?  

Hear-it answers questions related to the types and causes of hearing loss.

Raising Deaf Kids addresses parents concerns and provides information related to:

• causes of hearing loss
• genetics of hearing loss

A Parents' Guide to Genetics and Hearing Loss  - from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention

Causes of Hearing Loss in Children [Español]  - from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)