How is hearing loss categorized?

Hearing loss is categorized primarily into three main types: conductive, sensorineural, and mixed.

Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound is not conducted efficiently through the outer ear canal to the eardrum and the tiny bones of the middle ear. This can be due to various factors such as earwax buildup, fluid in the middle ear, or damage to the eardrum.

Sensorineural hearing loss is a result of damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve, which can occur due to exposure to loud noises, aging, or diseases. It typically affects the clarity and volume of sound and is often permanent.

Mixed hearing loss is a combination of both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss, indicating that there are issues in both the outer/middle ear and the inner ear or auditory nerve.

Understanding these categories is essential for diagnosis and developing treatment plans for individuals with hearing impairment, as different types of hearing loss may require different approaches in management and rehabilitation.