Understanding the Different Types of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is a common condition that impacts people of all ages, yet many are unaware that there are different types of hearing loss, each requiring specific approaches for diagnosis and treatment. Recognizing the distinctions between them is essential to managing symptoms effectively and preserving long-term hearing health.

This guide outlines the three primary types of hearing loss—conductive, sensorineural, and mixed—along with their causes, symptoms, and the most effective treatment options available today.

Type 1: Conductive Hearing Loss

Overview:
Conductive hearing loss arises when there is a disruption in the transmission of sound from the outer or middle ear to the inner ear. This prevents sound waves from being properly conducted and interpreted. It is often temporary and medically treatable.

Typical Causes:

Buildup of earwax (cerumen)
Middle ear fluid caused by colds, allergies, or sinus infections
Ear infections (otitis media)
Eardrum perforations
Abnormal growths (e.g., otosclerosis or benign tumors)
Objects lodged in the ear canal

Common Symptoms:

Muffled or soft hearing in one or both ears
Sensation of pressure, blockage, or fullness
Better hearing in noisy surroundings than in quiet environments
Occasional pain or drainage, especially with infections

Treatment Options:

Removal of earwax or foreign bodies by a hearing care professional
Prescribed medication to clear infections or reduce inflammation
Surgical repair of structural damage (e.g., a perforated eardrum)
Hearing aids in cases where medical solutions are insufficient

Type 2: Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Overview:
Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) occurs when the inner ear (cochlea) or the auditory nerve is damaged. Unlike conductive hearing loss, SNHL is typically permanent and progressive, though many treatment solutions exist to manage it effectively.

Leading Causes:

Age-related hearing degeneration (presbycusis)
Prolonged exposure to loud noise (occupational or recreational)
Head trauma or injuries affecting the inner ear
Genetic conditions
Certain medications that affect hearing (ototoxic drugs)
Infections like meningitis or measles

Notable Symptoms:

Difficulty understanding speech, especially with background noise
The perception that people are speaking unclearly or too softly
Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears)
Distorted or imprecise sounds

Management & Treatment:

Advanced digital hearing aids tailored to the individual’s hearing profile
Cochlear implants for individuals with severe or profound loss
Communication support tools such as captioned phones or listening devices
Auditory rehabilitation and counseling

Type 3: Mixed Hearing Loss

Overview:
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. It indicates damage in multiple parts of the ear: both the mechanical components (outer/middle ear) and the sensory pathways (inner ear or nerve).

Common Underlying Factors:

Head injuries that impact the entire auditory system
Chronic or untreated ear infections
A mix of age-related degeneration and physical blockages like wax buildup

Symptoms to Watch For:

A blend of symptoms seen in both conductive and sensorineural types
Muffled hearing along with difficulty understanding speech
Tinnitus and the sensation of fullness in the ear
Trouble hearing in both quiet and loud environments

Treatment Approach:

Medical or surgical solutions to address the conductive element
Amplification through hearing aids or cochlear implants for the sensorineural component
Ongoing care, including regular hearing tests and hearing aid adjustments

Taking Charge of Your Hearing Health

The first step to better hearing is understanding the specific type of hearing loss you may be experiencing. Our team uses state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to perform a comprehensive evaluation and develop a treatment plan that is customized to your needs.

Whether you’re experiencing hearing difficulties for the first time or looking for ways to optimize your current hearing care, early action is key.

Schedule Your Appointment Today
Call us or book online to arrange a professional hearing assessment with one of our experienced audiologists. Don’t wait—early detection can make all the difference in your long-term hearing health.