The Three Main Types of Hearing Loss

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The Three Main Types of Hearing Loss

 

The Three Main Types of Hearing Loss

 

Understanding the type of hearing loss you have is the first step toward effective treatment. Hearing loss is classified based on which part of the ear is affected. Here is a simple breakdown of the three main types:

 

1. Conductive Hearing Loss

 

  • What it is: This occurs when sound waves are blocked and can't easily travel through the outer ear canal to the eardrum and the tiny bones of the middle ear (ossicles). 

  • The Result: Sounds are perceived as softer.

  • Treatment: This type of loss is often temporary and can usually be corrected medically or surgically. Common causes include earwax buildup, middle ear infection, or a perforated eardrum.

 

2. Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SNHL)

 

  • What it is: This is the most common type of permanent hearing loss. It happens when there is damage to the inner ear (cochlea), specifically the delicate sensory hair cells, or to the nerve pathways leading from the inner ear to the brain.

  • The Result: Speech may be loud enough to hear, but it still sounds unclear, muffled, or distorted. It affects both loudness and clarity.

  • Treatment: SNHL is rarely treatable with medicine or surgery. It is typically managed with hearing aids or cochlear implants, which help to manage the ability to hear clearly.

 

3. Mixed Hearing Loss

 

  • What it is: A combination of both Conductive and Sensorineural hearing loss. This means there is damage in the outer/middle ear and in the inner ear (cochlea or auditory nerve).

  • The Result: The patient experiences both the softening of sounds (conductive component) and the muffling/distortion of speech (sensorineural component).

  • Treatment: Treatment will address both components, often including medical intervention for the conductive issue and hearing aids for the permanent sensorineural loss.

Getting an accurate diagnosis is crucial. As the best Hearing Clinic in Mumbai, we offer comprehensive testing and personalized solutions for every type of hearing loss. Plus, Acoustik Hearing And Speech Clinic can provide your hearing aid or instrument right at the comfort of your home anywhere in Mumbai, Thane, and Navi Mumbai.



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