What happens if the tests show there is a problem with my child's hearing?

If any of the test results are abnormal, the test may be repeated. This is because occasionally the testing conditions might have led to an unreliable result, for example if your child was restless or irritable during the test.

If the test results are reliable but abnormal, your child will be managed by a specialist multidisciplinary team which may include a doctor, a scientist or technician, a speech and language therapist, a teacher of the deaf, a psychologist, a nurse or other professionals as appropriate.

Your child's management plan will be designed to suit the type and degree of hearing loss. It may include treatment for glue ear, being fitted for hearing aids and/or - if the hearing loss is profound and permanent - being assessed as a potential cochlear implant candidate.

Your local social services department may assess your child's need for equipment around the home. They may also be able to help find family sign language classes, or suggest other communication tools.

As part of the management and monitoring process, some of the tests mentioned above may be repeated at intervals. This is particularly likely if the hearing loss is caused by glue ear, as this is a condition which can clear up without any intervention. If the hearing loss is likely to get worse over time, regular testing enables the specialist team to tailor the management plan and to make sure that the hearing aids, for example, are still providing maximum benefit.