Hearing Loss in Dubai | Speech Therapy & Audiological Support
Hearing loss in Dubai is a growing concern among families, particularly when it leads to delays in speech and language development. It refers to a reduced or absent ability to perceive sound, which may affect one or both ears and range from mild to profound, temporary or permanent.
Types of Hearing Loss
Conductive Hearing Loss
This type occurs when sound cannot efficiently travel through the outer or middle ear. Causes include earwax buildup, middle ear infections, fluid accumulation, or structural abnormalities. Conductive hearing loss is often treatable with medical or surgical intervention.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
This permanent form of hearing loss results from damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve. It is commonly caused by aging, prolonged noise exposure, genetic factors, or certain medications. Management often involves hearing aids or cochlear implants.
Mixed Hearing Loss
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of both conductive and sensorineural components, affecting multiple parts of the auditory system.
Central Hearing Loss
This type arises from damage in the brain’s auditory processing areas. Individuals may hear sounds clearly but struggle with comprehension.
Effects of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can significantly impact language development, academic achievement, social interaction, and overall quality of life. Early identification and appropriate interventions are key.
Treatment and Support Options
Hearing Aids
Electronic devices that amplify sound, helping individuals hear conversations and environmental sounds more clearly.
Cochlear Implants
For those with severe to profound hearing loss, cochlear implants can bypass damaged parts of the ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve.
Assistive Listening Devices
Technologies like FM systems and loop systems can improve hearing in specific settings such as classrooms or group environments.
Speech Therapy for Hearing Loss in Dubai
Speech therapy helps children and adults with hearing loss develop and strengthen communication skills.
1. Auditory Training
Focuses on improving the ability to detect and process speech sounds. Exercises may include sound discrimination and auditory memory tasks.
2. Speech Sound Production
Therapists teach correct articulation, improve clarity, and strengthen oral motor skills for better speech intelligibility.
3. Language Development
Interventions aim to build vocabulary, improve sentence formation, and enhance grammar usage for clearer communication.
4. Communication Strategies
Training in lip reading, visual cues, and using gestures enhances everyday interaction.
5. Support with Hearing Devices
Speech therapists guide patients and families on optimizing the use of hearing aids or cochlear implants.
6. Parent and Caregiver Education
Therapists involve families in the process, offering strategies for communication at home and reinforcing skills learned in therapy.
Internal Resource
Explore our related article on Speech and Language Delay in Children
External Reference
Learn more from National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)
Get Help for Hearing Loss in Dubai
If you suspect hearing loss in yourself or your child, don’t wait. Early intervention through audiological evaluation and speech therapy can greatly improve outcomes.
Contact Information: Dr. Azizreza Ghasemzadeh
Speech Therapist & Child Psychologist
WhatsApp: 0555 600 641
Instagram: @dr.aziz.ae
Website: www.speechtherapy.ae