Audiological evaluation in children with speech sound disorders.

Abstract

Background: Speech sound disorders (SSD) are among the most common forms of communication impairment in children. Children who struggle to create and use the sounds of their native language are said to have phonological or articulation issues, which affect 2.3% to 24.6% of children. Speech sound abnormalities appear to be debilitating. Conductive hearing loss and otitis media are the most prevalent causes of speech difficulties in children. This study aimed to assess hearing levels in children with speech sound disorders. Methods: The study included 60 children with speech sound disorders, aged 5 years and 6 months to 7 years and 5 months. Each child was evaluated using preliminary diagnostic procedures (parents' interview and taking the history), an IQ test, a language test, audiological tests, and a speech assessment. Results: The whole 60 children who had SSD were included, with an age range from 5 years and 6 months to 7 years and 5 months, IQ range was (80-99), and normal language development. Among children with speech sound disorders, there was a history of conductive hearing loss and a repeated history of otitis media. Conclusions: children who had SSD had conductive hearing loss and a repeated history of otitis media.