What is conductive hearing loss?

Diana Meeks on behalf of Sigma Nursing

Family Practitioner

There are three different types of hearing loss including sensorineural, conductive, and central auditory processing disorders. With a conductive hearing loss, there is a problem transmitting sound waves from the outer ear to the inner ear. A common reason for conductive hearing loss is a partial or full obstruction in the ear canal (in the outer ear). Sometimes fluid from sinusitis, ear infections, colds or allergies blocks your ear canal and results in conductive hearing loss. A person with abnormalities of the eustachian tube may have conductive hearing loss.
The good news about conductive hearing loss is that medications or surgery may partially or completely resolve the obstruction. This may allow the person to hear normally again.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Hearing Damage

Good hearing depends on a series of events that change sound waves into electrical signals that travel through our cells and nerves to our brains. When the hair cells (cilia) or auditory nerves that make this happen are damaged, your hearing is affected. Most people think of hearing loss (deafness) when the ear is damaged, but you can have other symptoms, too. You may hear a ringing or roaring sound. Most cases of hearing damage in those over 65 are caused by aging and heredity, but doctors are increasingly concerned about hearing damage in young patients, such as those who are exposed to loud on-the-job noises or recreational noise). It's important to understand the causes of hearing loss and what you can do to prevent it.

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