Aftercare Tips for Children with Cochlear Implants in Kolkata

Aftercare Tips
for Children with Cochlear Implants in Kolkata

BE INFORMED TAKE INFORMED DECISIONS

Cochlear Implants in Kolkata are transforming the lives of children with severe hearing loss, allowing them to experience sound and develop speech skills. However, aftercare is crucial to ensure that the implant functions optimally and the child adapts well to their new way of hearing.

Here is a little something to assist parents with aftercare so their children can transcend the sound world after cochlear implantation.

The Cochlear Implant Procedure: What You Should Know

A cochlear implant is a surgically placed medical device that bypasses damaged structures of the inner ear and instead directly stimulates the auditory nerve. The process involves:

Assessment: To receive a cochlear implant, a person must pass a hearing test.
Surgery: A tiny electronic device is implanted under the skin behind the ear.
Activation: About two to six weeks following surgery, an external speech processor is placed, and the device is synchronized.
Rehabilitation: Therapy is needed after implantation to help children adapt to sound.

Next Steps at Home after Synchronization

After the activation of your child’s cochlear implant, home care is important to help with your child’s hearing development:
- Daily Checks: Make sure the external processor is charged and is working.
- Daily Listening Time: Make sure your child wears the processor every day.
- Make Using Quiet Environment: Less background noise where they can concentrate on sounds.

Training the Child with Cochlear Implants to Hear

Cochlear implants give children access to sound, but they need to be taught to listen. Parents can help by:

Sounds Labelling: Similar to the above—say the name of a daily sound (doorbell, honking, clapping) to build a meaning association.
Play Sound Maze Games: Describe the objects that you find.
Read Aloud: Storytelling helps build auditory memory and comprehension.
Gradual Exposure: Gradually expose the child to different environments, assisting them in adapting to each changing soundscape.

Speech Therapy and Its Role in Development

Speech therapy is essential for the proper development of language amongst children fitted with cochlear implants.

Some of the benefits include:

Better Pronunciation: Ensures clarity in the articulation of words.
Better Sentence Formation: Disciplining speech to be more structured and meaningful.
Listening Skills: Training the brain to process and discriminate between sounds.
Confidence: Aided for the child to be within and among peers.

Counselling and Hearing Sounds

The child with cochlear implants will benefit from emotional and cognitive support as they learn to hear. With counselling, this can be achieved by:

Setting Realistic Expectations: Educating parents about the fact that adjustment takes time.
Encouraging Self-Expression: Promoting the child’s ability to talk freely without inhibition.
Emotional Support: Supporting the child with the emotional needs of adjusting during all the sounds.
Educating Family: Teaching everyone how to communicate with the child.

How Should Parents Behave Toward Their Child with Cochlear Implants?

Be Patient: Hearing is a gradual process; encourage your child’s gradual improvement.
Converse: Discuss everyday activities and expect some response.

Be Visual: Speak and gesture at the same time to reinforce understanding.
Celebrate each small achievement: Recognize improvement as a means of motivating your child.
Join support groups: Make contact with other parents or professionals for guidance.

Call Us for Support

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take for a child to adjust to cochlear implants?

It varies, but most children start responding to sound within a few weeks to months.

Can my child hear immediately after cochlear implant surgery?

No, the implant needs to be activated a few weeks post-surgery.

What are the common challenges children face after implantation?

Difficulty recognizing sounds, adjusting to new environments, and initial speech delays.

How often should the cochlear implant be checked?

Daily at home and through periodic professional check-ups.

Does my child need speech therapy after cochlear implantation?

Yes, therapy is essential for language development and effective communication.

Can my child participate in sports with a cochlear implant?

Yes, but protective measures should be taken to avoid impact on the implant site.

Are there any restrictions on water activities?

The external processor should be removed before swimming unless using a waterproof cover.

Will my child attend a regular school?

With proper therapy and support, most children can integrate into mainstream education.

How can I help my child adapt to new sounds?

Engage in interactive sound activities and gradually expose them to different environments.

Is it normal for my child to remove the processor?

Yes, especially in the beginning. Keep encouraging consistent use.

How can I ensure my child’s implant remains in good condition?

Regular maintenance and handling the device with care.

What if my child does not respond well to the implant?

Consult your audiologist to check the device settings and therapy approach.

Can both ears be implanted?

Yes, some children receive bilateral cochlear implants for better hearing.

How soon can my child return to school after surgery?

Usually within 2-4 weeks, depending on healing and adaptation progress.

Where can I get expert consultation for Cochlear Implants in Kolkata?

CC Saha Hearing Clinics offer professional consultation and post-implant support.

Booking an appointment is easy!

Call us Toll-Free 1800 570 9933 [Mon – Sat, 10am – 6pm]

Click the link to kook your appointment → Bookings | C.C. Saha Ltd.

While walk-ins are welcome, we recommend booking an appointment in advance to avoid waiting and ensure prompt service.

At CC Saha Clinics, we specialize in maintaining and servicing all types of hearing aids, from basic models to the latest Bluetooth-enabled and rechargeable devices. With locations across Kolkata—Esplanade, Prince Anwar Shah Road, Salt Lake, Dunlop, and Barasat—as well as in Burdwan and Paschim Midnapore, we are Eastern India’s most trusted hearing care provider.

Protect your ears from Kolkata’s relentless noise pollution. Visit CC Saha Ltd. for a comprehensive hearing check-up and explore cutting-edge solutions at the Brilliant Sound Galaxy. Let’s ensure your hearing stays as vibrant as the city you love.