Hearing Impaired?

In the state of Texas, it is required for newborns to have a hearing screening 24 hours after birth to check for hearing difficulties. Most hearing impaired babies have parents who had no risk factors so these early tests are important to ensure early detection.

Elayne failed her first one Saturday morning. I had heard several times that it is extremely common for babies to fail their first one due to fluid in their ears, noisy rooms, moving too much, etc. So we didn't think anything of it and were put on the schedule for a second screening the next morning.

Yesterday morning, however, she failed her second one as well. Reasons for failure are the same as with the first test, but not as many babies fail this second one. Therefore, we are scheduled to go back on September 10 for a third test. If she fails that one, we go on to see an audiologist.

Since then, we have noticed Elayne doesn't cry very loud and doesn't react to loud noises. Yesterday when we turned on the vacuum cleaned next to where she was sleeping, she didn't even move. She also holds her hands to her ears sometimes - which could mean she does have fluid and/or and ear infection.

While the possibility of Elayne having hearing difficulties makes us sad, we are ready if that is the case. We think she is perfect, regardless, and will love her just the same. We will always do whatever necessary to ensure she has the best life possible - whatever situation that means we have to endure. We want her to have everything she needs and she always will.

Please pray we get peace of mind on September 10. Either relief from her passing the test, acceptance of our journey with an audiologist, or clarity for what medical issue could be behind her failing so many times. We also see the pediatrician on September 5.

As always, I'll keep you updated.