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Audiology/Otolaryngology/does flying make hearing loss baby worse

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Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 3/26/2009


Question
My baby is diagnosed (bera test) with a sensorineural hearing loss of 40 decibel
in both ears. We would like to fly in july when my son will be 7 months.
Question: can flying make his sensorineural hearing loss worse or in any way
damage his ears further?

Answer
Hi Monique,

I applaud you on being concerned about your baby's hearing. Usually flying will not affect a sensorineural hearing loss.  However, be aware that babies do have a more difficult time equalizing pressure in the middle ear. If your baby would have any congestion prior to the flight, you do risk his getting a middle ear disorder.  Therefore, I would recommend that just before flying, you have your baby checked out and make sure his sinuses and respiratory tract is clear.  At that time, the doctor could also make any further recommendations.

Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology

Audiology/Otolaryngology

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Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D.

Expertise

I am a Board Certified Doctor of Audiology with 25 years of experience. I can answer questions regarding hearing loss, both general and specific, dizziness and vertigo, auditory processing disorders, hearing aids, aural rehabilitation as well as specialized audiologic testing, i.e., Auditory Brainstem Response, VideoNystagmography, Otoacoutic Emissions. I have worked with both pediatric and adult populations. Because of my extensive musical background, I am able to respond to questions regarding the special needs of musicians.

Experience

I have been an audiologist for over 25 years with a specialty in electrophysiology of the auditory and vestibular systems and pediatric evaluations. I currently work in my private consulting practice providing services to nursing homes and schools. My Doctoral research was on specialized techniques in Auditory Brainstem Responses.

Organizations
American Academy of Audiology, - American Speech Language Hearing Association, - Hearing Loss Association of America

Education/Credentials
Au.D. (Doctor of Audiology), Nova Southeastern University, 2000. Board Certified Doctor of Audiology (American Board of Audiology) Certificate in Audiology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

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