When it comes to hearing loss, there are three main types, in addition to another more complicated condition that includes decreased auditory abilities. The type that you have can vary by cause. The treatment for your hearing loss is dependent on which type of loss you have. Here is a look at the primary types of hearing loss.
1. CONDUCTIVE HEARING LOSS
With conductive hearing loss, sound does not make it properly to the inner ear. This usually happens because something is wrong with the outer or middle ear. Too much earwax can cause this type of hearing loss. Abnormal bone growth, a punctured eardrum and infection can also cause this type of hearing loss.
2. AUDITORY PROCESSING DISORDER HEARING LOSS
This type of hearing loss occurs when the brain isn’t able to effectively process sound signals. People who have this type of hearing loss may have trouble understanding speech or not know where sound is coming from.
3. SENSORINEURAL HEARING LOSS
Sensorineural hearing loss happens as a result of damage to the auditory nerve or the cochlea. It can also occur if either of these two things is malfunctioning without actually being damaged. When the cochlea or the auditory nerve are damaged or are malfunctioning, then sound signals cannot effectively be sent to the brain. This makes the interpretation of sound much, much more difficult.
There are a number of things that can cause this type of hearing loss. For example, aging, genetics, loud noises and others can all cause damage to the cochlea or auditory nerve. This type of hearing loss is usually permanent, unfortunately.
4. MIXED HEARING LOSS
Mixed hearing loss occurs when a person has both sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. When a person has mixed hearing loss, the conductive aspect can be either temporary or permanent. However, the sensorineural aspect is almost always permanent.
Mixed hearing loss can be very severe and it can have a strong negative impact on a person’s life. For this reason, treatment can be highly beneficial. Hearing aids, cochlear implants and other methods are often used for people who have this type of hearing loss. If a person’s hearing loss is total in both ears and nothing can be done, then sign language can be learned as a last resort for communication.
If you are experiencing hearing loss, don’t hesitate to seek treatment from a trusted hearing care specialist. Hearing loss can impact your emotional wellbeing and quality of life, so it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with a hearing provider in your area.