Types of Hearing Loss
Types of Hearing Loss
Conductive Hearing Loss: Caused by issues in the outer or middle ear, hindering the transmission of sound waves to the inner ear. Possible causes include earwax buildup, fluid in the middle ear, infections, perforated eardrum, or structural abnormalities.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss: Results from damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or the auditory nerve pathway to the brain. Common causes include aging, noise exposure, genetics, medications, head trauma, or conditions like meningitis or Meniere’s disease.
Mixed Hearing Loss: A combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss, indicating issues in both the outer/middle ear and the inner ear or auditory nerve.
Neural Hearing Loss (Auditory Neuropathy): Cochlear function is intact, but there’s a problem in transmitting signals from the auditory nerve to the brain. Can be present at birth or acquired due to factors like premature birth, genetic disorders, or certain medical conditions.
Central Hearing Loss: Caused by a problem in the central nervous system, particularly in the brain’s auditory pathways. Potential causes include tumors, strokes, brain injuries, or neurological disorders.
Functional Hearing Loss: Hearing difficulties without organic or structural abnormalities in the auditory
system. Most often connected to emotional or psychological factors as compared to physiological ones.
An audiologist or ear, nose, and throat (ENT) professional must assess and diagnose hearing loss, which can range in severity from minor to severe. If hearing loss is suspected, seeking professional guidance is crucial for appropriate management.