What Are the Different Types of Hearing Loss?

Hearing loss is one of the most common yet least acknowledged health conditions in the world. Many people associate it with the older population, but there are a few different types of hearing loss all of which can affect one at any age. 

The ear consists of three main sections – the inner, middle and outer ear. Each type of hearing loss can affect different parts of the ear. Moreover, damage can range from mild to severe. Knowing the different types of hearing loss can help individuals prevent or detect serious issues. Below are some of the most common types of hearing loss and how they are identified and treated. 

Conductive hearing loss

Conductive hearing loss occurs when something prevents sound from traveling through the outer ear to the inner ear. When a person experiences this type of hearing loss, the sound is often perceived as muffled or soft because of the blockage.

According to the Hearing Loss Association of America, this form of hearing loss can be caused by conditions like the swimmer’s ear, earwax buildup, allergies and deformation of the outer ear or tumors. Unlike some of the other types of hearing loss, conductive hearing loss can usually be corrected with surgery or medicine. 

Sensorineural hearing loss 

The most common type of hearing loss, sensorineural or SNHL, is when there is damage to an individual’s neural or sensory areas of the auditory system. It mostly affects areas in the inner ear like the cochlea. The cochlea is a small sensory organ that is responsible for transmitting sounds to the brain. Sounds vibrate against the cochlea and tiny hair cells, which create nerve signals the brain can interpret. 

However, if parts of the inner ear are damaged, hearing is permanently damaged. Some of the causes associated with sensorineural hearing loss are related to genetics and aging. Other causes like taking ototoxic medicine or overexposure to loud music and noises are easier to prevent with careful monitoring. Unlike conductive hearing loss, SNHL often cannot be corrected with surgery or medication. Those who are diagnosed with this type of damage usually have to wear hearing aids or other assistive devices to improve hearing.

Mixed hearing loss 

Mixed hearing loss is the third common type of impairment. It occurs when an individual has a mixture of both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. The middle, outer or inner parts of the ear can be damaged which ultimately causes them to not function properly. Those with mixed hearing loss will usually need to wear hearing aids because the condition is permanent and difficult to treat through medicine or surgery. 

The ear consists of an intricate system of organs, nerve cells, tiny bones and other parts that work together to translate sound vibrations into the noises which the brain interprets. When one part of the system is damaged, it can permanently affect the entire hearing health of an individual. Treatment also depends on the type of hearing loss one is experiencing. Being aware of the differences can help individuals identify and seek treatment early.