Understand the different types of hearing loss

Hearing loss is a prevalent condition that impacts almost 40 million Americans. It can significantly impact a person's quality of life, causing difficulties in communication and increased social isolation. Understanding the types of hearing loss, their causes, symptoms, and treatments can help with management and potential prevention of the condition. This article explores the three primary types of hearing loss: sensorineural, conductive, and mixed.

Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is the most common type of permanent hearing loss and occurs when there is damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or the nerve pathways from the inner ear to the brain.

Causes

Most commonly, SNHL occurs as a result of aging, exposure to loud noises, head injuries, viral infections like measles or mumps, Meniere's disease, or certain medications that are ototoxic. Genetic or hereditary conditions can also play a role in SNHL.

Symptoms

Individuals with SNHL often report that they can hear people speaking but can't understand what they're saying, making it seem like people are mumbling. This difficulty is particularly noticeable in noisy environments. Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) is also a common symptom that can accompany sensorineural hearing loss.

Treatment

While sensorineural hearing loss is usually permanent, treatments can help improve quality of life. Hearing aids are the most common treatment, while cochlear implants can help when the hearing loss is severe or profound. Assistive listening devices (ALDs) may also be beneficial for certain situations.

Conductive Hearing Loss

Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound is not conducted efficiently through the outer ear canal to the eardrum and the tiny bones, or ossicles, of the middle ear. This results in a reduction in sound level or the ability to hear faint sounds.

Causes

Common causes include blockage of the ear canal (due to earwax or foreign objects), ear infection, perforated eardrum, fluid in the middle ear (common in children), or abnormalities in the bone structure of the middle ear.

Symptoms

Symptoms might include muffled hearing and feeling as though your ear is blocked or full. You might also experience pain, drainage from the ear, or even a noticeable difference in your ability to hear in different environments.

Treatment

Conductive hearing loss might be temporary or permanent, but many types are correctable. Depending on the cause, treatment might involve removal of earwax, medications for infection or allergies, surgical intervention, or hearing aids.

Mixed Hearing Loss

As the name suggests, mixed hearing loss is a combination of sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. This means that there may be damage in the outer or middle ear and in the inner ear or auditory nerve.

Causes

Mixed hearing loss can result from a combination of factors causing both sensorineural and conductive hearing loss.

Symptoms

Symptoms of mixed hearing loss will include elements of both sensorineural and conductive hearing loss and can vary greatly depending on the individual's specific condition.

Treatment

Treatment of mixed hearing loss usually involves addressing the conductive component first. This might include medical or surgical intervention. Once the conductive part of the hearing loss is treated, the sensorineural component is typically addressed in the same way as a standalone sensorineural hearing loss.

Hearing loss is a complex condition with various types and causes. Regardless of the type of hearing loss, it is crucial to seek professional help from an Audiologist if you suspect a problem. Early diagnosis and intervention can often lead to better outcomes and may help to prevent further hearing loss. Regular hearing checks are a good preventive measure, especially as we age or if we are frequently exposed