TYPES AND CAUSE
Types of Hearing Loss – A Simple Guide by an Audiologist
There are three main types of hearing loss: Conductive, Sensorineural, and Mixed.
Conductive Hearing Loss
- Happens when there is a problem in the outer or middle ear.
- Sound waves cannot pass properly to the inner ear.
- Can often be treated with medicine or surgery.
Causes of Conductive Hearing Loss:
- Ear structure problems (present from birth or due to an accident).
- Benign tumors in the ear.
- Excess earwax blocking sound.
- Ear canal infections.
- Foreign objects stuck in the ear.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
- Caused by damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve.
- Permanent hearing loss that cannot be reversed.
- Common in older adults and people exposed to loud noise.
Causes of Sensorineural Hearing Loss:
- Birth complications (lack of oxygen at birth).
- Genetic (hereditary) conditions.
- Viral or bacterial infections (rubella, herpes, syphilis, cytomegalovirus, meningitis).
- Ototoxic drugs (medications that harm hearing).
- Loud noise exposure over time or sudden loud explosions.
- Head or ear injuries.
Mixed Hearing Loss
- A combination of Conductive and Sensorineural hearing loss.
- Issues exist in both the outer/middle ear and the inner ear.
- Requires a detailed diagnosis by an Audiologist to determine the right treatment.
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Take Action!
- If you notice hearing difficulties, consult an Audiologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
- Early detection can prevent further hearing damage.
- Hearing aids or medical treatment can help improve quality of life.
FAQs
Yes, many people with hearing loss can still enjoy music, especially if they use hearing aids or cochlear implants. In some cases, people may prefer certain music genres that suit their hearing abilities.
Treatment options vary based on the cause and severity:
- Hearing aids can help amplify sound for most types of hearing loss.
- Cochlear implants may be an option for severe hearing loss.
- Surgery or medications may be necessary for certain conditions,
such as fluid buildup or ear infections. - Assistive listening devices like FM systems or amplified telephones
can also help.
It depends on the cause.
Permanent: Sensorineural hearing loss (inner ear damage) is often irreversible.
Temporary: Conductive hearing loss (due to ear infections, fluid, or blockages) may be treatable.
Yes, some measures can help prevent hearing loss, such as:
- Wearing ear protection in noisy environments.
- Limiting exposure to loud sounds (e.g., headphones or concerts).
- Regular hearing check-ups, especially if you work in noisy
environments. - Avoiding ototoxic medications when possible.
Signs of hearing loss include:
- Difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments.
- Frequently asking people to repeat themselves.
- Turning up the volume on devices higher than others.
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
- Feeling that others are mumbling when speaking.
Hearing loss can be caused by various factors, including:
- Age-related changes (presbycusis).
- Exposure to loud noises (noise-induced hearing loss).
- Infections or injuries affecting the ear.
- Genetics or hereditary factors.
- Medications that can affect hearing (ototoxic drugs).
- Earwax buildup or fluid in the ear.
Yes, OTC hearing aids are available for mild-to-moderate hearing loss, but a professional evaluation is recommended for the best fit and effectiveness.
If you have hearing loss in both ears, using two hearing aids provides better sound localization and speech clarity.
Prices vary widely, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on features and technology. Some insurance plans may cover part of the cost.
