5yr old Failed Annual hearing screening

[Jessica T]

My 5yr old has never failed a hearing test before. I assume she’s gotten one annually since birth at each well visit. I remember them checking vision, but not specifically hearing. Anyway, she just failed her hearing test yesterday. The doctor said the ear canal that failed is noticeably smaller and curvier than the other. She said the reason she failed was that it was retracted and there was some fluid build up behind it. 
 

we have an appointment set to recheck in 6 weeks, but after a little googling I’m concerned there may be bigger issues brewing here. How is it that she’s 5 and I’ve never heard another pediatrician mention her ear canal differs so much from the other?! Is it possible to have a retracted ear drum that corrects itself? Or does this sound like a life long issue that’s coming to the surface? 
 

Any input is appreciated.

[Mary Beth]

@Jessica T

I am sorry your child failed the hearing screening.  Have you been referred to a ear nose & throat doctor and an audiologist?  Hopefully they will be able to answer your questions.  Wishing your child the very best.

[Jewel]

@Jessica T

Hi. Sorry that your daughter failed her hearing test. It sounds like it's just one ear that has a problem. I know that getting the results may have scared you, but I am sure you will get the necessary assurance from the experts in the field, who as @Mary Bethmentioned are the ENT specialist and the audiologist. Maybe a test like a CT scan will be required to get the full picture as to what is actually going on inside her ear.

The sooner you see those professionals the sooner you will regain your peace of mind.

Wishing you and yuur daughter well. 

[2monkeys]

My daughter’s hearing loss was picked up at 5 also. I don’t think hearing is tested prior to that due to difficulty with conducting the test in a younger child.