What are the common symptoms of hearing loss?

Symptoms may defer depending on the degree of hearing loss.

In babies, some common symptoms maybe:

  • Not turning to sound 
  • Does not startle at loud noises
  • Not babbling at 6-9 months of age and not saying single words by 12-14 months of age

In children, some common symptoms maybe:

  • Delayed speech
  • Unclear speech and poor pronunciation
  • Speaking loudly
  • Needing people to repeat their instructions
  • Turning up the volume of the TV too high

What is a hearing screen?

Universal Newborn Hearing Screen is done for all babies born in Singapore. It is a basic hearing test to identify babies with hearing loss so that intervention
can start as early as possible.

What happens if my baby “fails” this hearing screen?

When a baby fails their hearing screen, they are referred to an ENT specialist who will assess and perform more tests. Early intervention is needed to prevent further complications
such as speech delay.

What are the common causes of hearing loss?

The causes of hearing loss are myriad. A lot of congenital hearing loss is as a result of genetic causes.

Acquired hearing loss (hearing loss that results after birth) can be due to infection.

Is hearing loss reversible?

Depending on the cause of hearing loss, some conditions such as ear infections are reversible. Other causes of hearing loss such as congenital hearing loss is
rarely reversible.

What happens if my child is diagnosed with hearing loss?

If hearing loss is diagnosed, you should work closely with your doctor to ensure that the child’s development of speech, language and social skills are not affected. There may be intervention required for your child to attain their full potential.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I expect from my first ENT specialist visit?

Your ENT doctor will first take a look at your medical history, find out more about the symptoms you’re experiencing and thereafter perform a thorough physical examination. This may include certain procedures such as flexible nasoendoscopy (a look into your nasal passages with a tiny camera). Your issues will be addressed and a suitable treatment plan will be devised for you.

How do I prepare my child for the first visit to the ENT clinic?

Always talk to your child to prepare them for their ENT visit. Find out more about the issues they’re experiencing so that you can assist them in helping the ENT doctor understand their condition. Do bring along a list of their old medications and health booklet.

What modes of payment do you accept?

We accept the following modes of payment:

  • Cash
  • NETS
  • PayNow/PayLah
  • All major credit cards

If you are insured and require more assistance, do approach our clinic staff.

Can I claim my medical bills through my Medisave account?

Yes. All Singaporeans and PR are able to use Medisave for certain consultations, procedures, and medications at our clinic. Please contact us to find out more about the eligible services.

I have insurance. Can I use that to claim for my medical bills?

Selected procedures are deductible if patients have purchased Integrated Shield plans. Please contact us to find out more.

The 6 Approved Integrated Shield Insurers are:

  • NTUC Income’s IncomeShield and Enhanced IncomeShield
  • American International Assurance International Co’s (AIA) HealthShield Gold
  • Great Eastern Life Assurance Co’s SupremeHealth and SupremeHealth Plus
  • Aviva Ltd’s MyShield
  • Prudential Assurance Co’s PRUShield
  • AXA Shield