Hearing loss is a common condition that can occur in people of all ages and can be caused by a variety of factors. There are three main types of hearing loss: conductive, sensorineural, and mixed. In this article, we will explore what is hearing loss and the 3 main types in more detail.
Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves cannot travel efficiently through the outer and/or middle ear. The typical causes are:
- Earwax buildup
- Infections or inflammation in the ear canal or middle ear
- Fluid buildup in the middle ear
- Abnormal growths in the ear canal or middle ear
- A perforated eardrum
- Malformation of the outer or middle ear
Depending on the cause and severity of the condition, medication, surgery, or hearing aids can treat Conductive hearing loss.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when there is damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve, which carries sound signals from the inner ear to the brain. The typical causes are:
- Aging
- Exposure to loud noise
- Trauma to the head
- Certain medications or toxins
- Genetics
- Illnesses such as meningitis or otosclerosis
Sensorineural hearing loss is usually permanent and cannot be reversed. However, it can often be managed with hearing aids or cochlear implants.
Mixed Hearing Loss
Mixed hearing loss occurs when there is both a conductive and a sensorineural hearing loss present. The typical causes of Mixed Hearing Loss are:
- Chronic ear infections
- Otosclerosis
- Trauma to the head
- Tumours or growths in the middle or inner ear
Treatment for mixed hearing loss will depend on the cause and severity of the condition but may include a combination of medication, surgery, and hearing aids or cochlear implants.
Hearing loss can be caused by a variety of factors and can manifest in different ways. Conductive hearing loss occurs when there is a blockage or obstruction in the outer or middle ear, while sensorineural hearing loss occurs when there is damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve. Mixed hearing loss occurs when there is both a conductive and a sensorineural hearing loss present. Treatment for hearing loss will depend on the type and severity of the condition but may include medication, surgery, and hearing aids or cochlear implants. If you suspect that you or someone you know may have hearing loss, it is important to seek the advice of a healthcare professional.
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