Blog

What is Conductive Hearing Loss?

By gahear on January 2, 2024 in Hearing Loss

Throughout the world, millions of people live with hearing loss. One of the most common types is conductive hearing loss. It typically happens due to issues in the eardrum, ear canal, and middle ear. This issue makes it hard for sound waves to make their way to the inner ear. When you have this type of hearing loss, it usually makes it difficult to hear faint sounds.

Causes of Conductive Hearing Loss

There are four primary causes of conductive hearing loss.  They include the following:

Ear Infections

Ear infections can lead to this type of hearing loss. This is due to the infection allowing for fluid to build up in the middle ear. The fluid along with inflammation blocks the sound waves from getting to your inner ear.

Eardrum Perforations

Eardrum perforations occur as a result of infection injury or exposure to loud noise. This is characterized by your eardrum having a hole in it that makes it harder for your ear to properly conduct sound.

Earwax Accumulation

When earwax accumulates excessively, it can also result in a blockage that causes an ear canal obstruction. This obstruction makes it hard for sound waves to get to the eardrum. This cause is usually temporary and will resolve when you remove the blockage.

Otosclerosis

Another possible cause is otosclerosis, which is a condition characterized by the middle ear experiencing abnormal bone growth. It disrupts ossicle movement, resulting in this condition. It can occur in both of your ears, and it is a hereditary condition.

Symptoms of Conductive Hearing Loss

When you have this condition, the sounds you hear have reduced intensity. They might appear muffled or faint. If a perforation or infection is the cause, you might also have pain or discomfort. Some people also experience ringing in their ears.

Conductive Hearing Loss Diagnosis and Treatment

To make a diagnosis and determine the underlying cause, your doctor will perform a comprehensive audiological evaluation. They will then prescribe antibiotics for an ear infection or remove excess earwax if a blockage is present. A stapedectomy is a type of surgery that might benefit those with otosclerosis.

Hearing aids are a long-term solution for conductive hearing loss. They amplify sounds so that it is easier to hear. Your doctor will help you choose the best one for you.

Outlook for Conductive Hearing Loss

The underlying cause and its severity generally determine the long-term outlook for conductive hearing loss. Some cases are completely reversible, while others will eventually require hearing aids for the long term. These will help to make it easier to hear so that you can work, socialize, and perform your daily duties with less interference.

Schedule a Consultation

Conductive hearing loss is relatively common, so it’s nothing to be ashamed of. To find the right treatment for you, schedule a consultation with one of our three Georgia Hearing Aid Factory Outlet locations. Call us or use our online contact form.