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Question
My baby does not seem to respond to audio stimuli.

Is there any way I can determine if he has a hearing problem?

Answer
You don't say how old your baby is, but yes, there are a couple of tests that can be done to ascertain whether he is hearing properly.

Oto-accoustic emission is a test that can be done as soon as a baby is born, and simply involves a tiny probe being inserted into the ear, which then emits a sound against a part of the internal ear called the cochlea.

The cochlea will 'whistle' back if hearing is normal.

This method of hearing assessment is available in most audiology departments.

ABR (auditory brain response) is another test your son could have which is also widely available in audiology departments.

See your GP initially who can check there is no sign of ear infection or glue ear where fluid has collected in the ear following previous infections.

See the NetDoctor factsheet on ear examinations here.

If his ears are clear, ask your GP to refer you to your local audiology department for one of the above tests.

Yours sincerely

The Medical Team