Introduction: Early identification of hearing impairment in childhood is imperative, as even a mild hearing loss can have long-term consequences on the development of the Central Nervous System. Many children develop transient, fluctuant deafness due to Middle ear effusion, especially during episodes of Common cold. In this research, we try to develop a Screening protocol using Impedance Audiometry for early identification of Middle ear effusions. Materials and Methods: Children between 7 months to 6 years of age, with no previous history of hearing impairment or ear disease, who were suffering from Upper respiratory tract infection (Common cold) were selected as targets of screening.
These children were then subjected to a Screening Tympanometry. A simple, quick and accurate method of screening for Middle ear fluid was “Peak” or “No peak” approach was employed to judge the curves. If a…
