Types of Hearing Loss
Types of Hearing Loss
There are three types of hearing loss, including sensorineural hearing loss, conductive hearing loss and mixed hearing loss.
Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss results from a problem in the outer or middle ear that prevents sound from getting through the outer or middle ear and reaching the inner ear. Conductive hearing losses are typically temporary. Conductive hearing loss can often be treated with medication or surgery. When conductive hearing loss cannot be treated, most people benefit from the use of hearing aids.
Common causes of conductive hearing loss:
Fluid in the middle ear
Middle Ear infections
Eardrum Perforation
Impacted cerumen (earwax)
Outer Ear infections (Swimmer’s Ear)
Foreign object in ear
Absence or malformation of the outer ear, ear canal, or middle ear
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Sensorineural hearing loss occurs is caused by a problem in the inner ear and/or the auditory nerve, when the inner ear and/or the auditory nerve are missing or damaged. The problems result in weakened nerve signals being sent to the brain. Usually sensorineural hearing loss is permanent, we cannot repair the damaged/missing hair cells in the cochlea or the auditory nerve. Majority of the people with sensorineural hearing loss benefit from the use of hearing aids.
Common causes of sensorineural hearing loss:
Illnesses
Drugs that are toxic to hearing (ototoxicity)
Genetics
Aging (presbycusis)
Head trauma
Malformation of the inner ear or the auditory nerve
Long exposure to loud noise
Mixed Hearing Loss
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of conductive hearing loss and sensorineural hearing loss. Mixed hearing loss occurs when there is damage to the outer or middle ear and the inner ear or auditory nerve. Mixed hearing loss can also result from a combination of the possible causes listed above.Conductive hearing loss can often be treated with medication or surgery while the sensorineural hearing loss is permanent. The management plan might be a combination of medical or surgical treatment and the use of hearing aids.
If you are concerned about your hearing and may be experiencing any signs of hearing loss, see an Ear-Nose-Throat Doctor or an audiologist for consultation. Timely and appropriate intervention is very important.