Regularly giving children unprescribed antibiotics could potentially cause hearing loss, according to Mrs. Jemima Fynn, the Lead Audiologist at the Hearing Assessment Centre of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra. Mrs. Fynn explained that certain antibiotics commonly available on the market can damage the sensory cells in the ears, leading to permanent hearing loss. In an interview with The Mirror, she highlighted that while some newborns may have congenital hearing loss, other factors such as untreated ear infections and the use of ototoxic medications like antibiotics can contribute to hearing loss. Mrs. Fynn expressed concern that many caregivers purchase antibiotics without consultation or knowledge of their potential effects on children. She also cautioned against the use of over-the-counter ear drops without understanding the cause of discomfort, as they can exacerbate the situation and potentially result in hearing loss.
In addition to antibiotics, Mrs. Fynn mentioned infections such as mumps, measles, and meningitis as possible causes of hearing problems in children. She advised parents to seek immediate medical attention if they observe signs of these infections. Mrs. Fynn also urged the public, especially young people, to limit the use of headphones and earbuds, as prolonged exposure to these devices increases the risk of developing hearing loss. She emphasized that the risk of hearing loss continues to rise due to exposure to noise in recreational settings and personal audio devices.
Mrs. Fynn noted an increase in the number of children seeking assessment at the Hearing Assessment Centre, with delayed speech being a common issue. Early intervention is crucial, as it enhances the likelihood of children catching up to their peers in terms of language acquisition. To address hearing impairment in newborns, the hospital recently launched a newborn hearing screening project in collaboration with Med El and Path Medical. The screening, currently being piloted at the facility and two other health centers has become a routine procedure for newborns delivered at the hospital. Mrs. Fynn believes that this project, though long overdue, will play a vital role in reducing cases of hearing loss in children. She expressed gratitude to their partners and hopes that the project will expand to other parts of the country, emphasizing that implementing precautionary measures can help prevent around 60% of childhood hearing loss cases.
Writer’s email:
Comments
Post a Comment