Are you experiencing recent hearing issues?
You’re not alone in your concern. Roughly 30 million people (over the age of 12) live with hearing loss. However, truly understanding your issue will require a doctor’s diagnosis.
In the meantime, you can learn about the primary types of hearing loss, including the different treatments and devices available.
Keep reading to discover more information on different types of hearing loss.
The Three Types of Hearing Loss
Hearing disorders fall into three primary categories:
- Conductive hearing loss
- Sensorineural hearing loss
- Mixed hearing loss
Hearing loss categories correspond to your inner, middle, outer ear, or a combination of one or more areas.
For example, conductive hearing loss means there’s a problem with your middle or outer ear. Sensorineural issues mean there’s trouble with your inner ear (or even the nerve itself.) Mixed hearing loss means you’re having problems with a combination of sensorineural and conductive.
Signs and Symptoms of Conductive Hearing Loss
Do typical sounds and conversations sound more muffled recently?
This sign is one of the first symptoms of conductive hearing loss. Gradual hearing loss is another standout symptom, but other signs may be mistaken for entirely different conditions.
For example, dizziness is associated with conductive hearing loss, but it’s easy to write this symptom off as regular fatigue.
Excessive ear drainage is another critical sign to watch, including ear pain and fullness in the ear. You’ll find quiet sounds are much harder to hear, as well.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss Symptoms to Watch
It’s crucial to note overlaps in hearing loss symptoms. Thus, you should always get a doctor’s diagnosis as soon as possible.
For example, muffled hearing is typical with sensorineural and conductive ear issues. You may experience stuffy ears, gradual hearing loss, and dizziness, similar to the previous condition.
However, sudden hearing loss is much more common with sensorineural problems. You’re also more likely to experience ringing in the ears.
These issues may also be caused by ear wax buildup, common colds, or other minor problems. Seeking a doctor’s opinion right away will ensure quicker treatment for your pain.
Mixed Hearing Loss
It’s possible to have a combination of both sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. However, a medical center like Amplifon Hearing Clinic can rule out other possibilities first.
Hearing loss causes run the gamut, ranging from age to work-related issues.
Other common causes include:
- Sustained exposure to loud noises
- Nerve damage
- Excessive ear wax buildup
- Perforated eardrum
- Ear infections
Fortunately, some of these causes are easily treated. A free clinic could even perform an earwax removal. Plus, ear infections aren’t difficult to treat by a doctor.
However, some hearing loss isn’t recoverable, like inner ear damage due to sustained loud noises. Metal fabricators, factory workers, construction workers, and other industry professionals are more at risk for hearing loss.
Learn More About Different Types of Hearing Loss
Do you want to get to the bottom of your hearing issues?
The best place to start is your doctor. Talk to your physician about the different types of hearing loss. Plus, you’ll get expert-approved devices and treatment.
The blog is also a great source of topics for your everyday life.
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