What are the treatments for the condition?

Treatment is directed at the cause, when possible. For instance, children with trouble hearing often benefit from a hearing aid. Children who are completely deaf can often learn sign language. Children being abused can be taken out of the abusive environment. This is often enough to improve the child's language problem. Children with psychiatric problems may benefit from medications and counseling. Children with chronic otitis media may benefit from antibiotics. Some of these children may also benefit from surgery for ear tube insertion.

Speech therapy can be beneficial for children with nervous system damage. Special classes or learning environments are often advised for children with more severe problems, such as cerebral palsy or Down syndrome. Parents may have to lower their expectations for language development in some cases.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Surgery to place tubes into the eardrums may result in eardrum damage or new infections. Medications used for psychiatric problems may cause allergic reactions, sleepiness, or stomach upset.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

This is related to the cause and the success of treatment. Those with cerebral palsy or mental retardation may need lifelong therapy and treatment. Those with hearing impairment may have their language problem "cured" by a hearing aid. These children may need no further treatment once they catch up with their peers.

How is the condition monitored?

The parents can report any change in the child's language or response from treatment to the healthcare provider. Other monitoring relates to the cause. For instance, children with emotional problems often need frequent counseling and monitoring. This can be done to help watch for difficulties in other areas.