Not All Hearing Loss is the Same

Conductive Hearing Loss:

This type of hearing loss occurs when the amount of sound waves entering the ear through the outer or middle ear is reduced before they reach the inner ear. Common causes are the following;

Earwax buildup: A common and easily treatable cause of conductive hearing loss.

Ear infection: Can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss depending on the severity

Ruptured eardrum: A tear in the eardrum can affect sound transmission

Otosclerosis: Abnormal bone growth in the middle ear that hinders sound vibration.

Conductive hearing loss often results in muffled or quiet sounds. In some cases, people may experience a feeling of fullness in the ear. The good news is that conductive hearing loss can often be treated with medication, earwax removal, surgery, or hearing aids that amplify sound vibrations.

Sensorineural Hearing Loss:

This type of hearing loss is caused by damage to the inner ear, specifically the hair cells or auditory nerve. The hair cells are responsible for converting sound waves into electrical signals that travel to the brain. Sensorineural hearing loss is a permanent condition and can be caused by several factors, including:

Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis): The most common cause, affecting millions as we age.

Noise exposure: Loud noises can damage hair cells over time.

Ototoxic medications: Certain medications can have a side effect of hearing loss.

Meniere's disease: An inner ear disorder that can cause hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and vertigo.

Sensorineural hearing loss often results in difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments. Hearing aids can be very helpful for managing sensorineural hearing loss.

Mixed Hearing Loss:

This type of hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. It can occur when there's a blockage in the outer or middle ear and damage to the inner ear. Treatment for mixed hearing loss will depend on the specific cause and may involve a combination of approaches used for conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.