Hearing loss isn’t just about struggling to hear—it comes in different forms, affects people in different ways, and can have a variety of causes. Understanding the type of hearing loss you or a loved one has is the first step toward finding the right treatment.
Let’s break down the three main types of hearing loss, what causes them, and what can be done to manage them.
1. Conductive Hearing Loss: When Sound Can’t Reach the Inner Ear
Conductive hearing loss happens when something blocks or interferes with sound passing through the outer or middle ear. Imagine sound trying to reach your inner ear but being stopped by a clogged tunnel.
🔎 Common causes of conductive hearing loss:
🟠 Ear wax buildup – Too much wax can block the ear canal, muffling sound.
🦠 Ear infections – Fluid in the middle ear (from colds or infections) can affect hearing.
🦴 Otosclerosis – A condition where tiny bones in the middle ear become stiff, reducing their ability to transmit sound.
👂 Eardrum perforation – A hole or tear in the eardrum from injury or infections.
✔️ Can it be treated? Yes! Conductive hearing loss is often temporary and can be treated by removing blockages, using medication, or in some cases, surgery.
2. Sensorineural Hearing Loss: When the Inner Ear or Nerves Are Damaged
This is the most common type of hearing loss and happens when the inner ear (cochlea) or the auditory nerve is damaged. This means sound can reach the ear, but the brain struggles to process it properly.
🔎 Common causes of sensorineural hearing loss:
🎧 Loud noise exposure – Listening to loud music, working in noisy environments, or exposure to explosions can damage the inner ear’s delicate hair cells.
👵 Aging (presbycusis) – Natural wear and tear on the hearing system over time.
💊 Certain medications (ototoxic drugs) – Some antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and high doses of aspirin can harm hearing.
🧬 Genetics – Some people are born with a predisposition to hearing loss.
🤕 Head trauma – Injuries affecting the auditory system or brain can lead to permanent hearing loss.
✔️ Can it be treated? Most sensorineural hearing loss is permanent, but hearing aids or cochlear implants can help restore clarity and improve communication.
3. Mixed Hearing Loss: A Combination of Both
Mixed hearing loss happens when someone has both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss at the same time.
🔎 Example causes of mixed hearing loss:
🦻 An ear infection (conductive) + Age-related hearing loss (sensorineural)
🦴 Otosclerosis (conductive) + Noise-induced hearing loss (sensorineural)
✔️ Can it be treated? Treatment depends on the cause. Conductive issues might be resolved with medical intervention, while hearing aids or implants can help with sensorineural damage.
When Should You Get Your Hearing Checked?
If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s time to book a hearing test:
✅ Muffled sounds or difficulty hearing in conversations
✅ Ringing in your ears (tinnitus)
✅ Turning up the TV or radio louder than usual
✅ Feeling like people are mumbling when they speak
✅ Struggling to hear in noisy places
📅 Concerned about your hearing? Book a hearing test at Natural Hearing to find out if hearing loss is affecting you and what can be done to help.