Types of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss types Before fitting you with hearing aids – or determining whether you need them at all – hearing professionals must determine the type and severity of your hearing loss. There are three types of hearing loss: EAR CANAL EAR CANAL NERVES NERVES CONDUCTIVE HEARING LOSS SENSORINEURAL HEARING LOSS MIXED HEARING LOSS What it is: Conductive hearing loss occurs in the ear canal or the middle ear, and is similar to an ear infection. Obstruction, such as wax, or other damage in the ear can cause conductive hearing loss. What you can do: Doctors normally can treat conductive hearing loss without the use of hearing aids. What it is: Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type of hearing loss. It occurs in the nerves, and it is permanent. What you can do: While there currently is no way to repair sensorineural hearing loss, hearing aids can help. However, early detection is critical, and you should contact a provider as soon as you suspect you may have hearing loss. What it is: Mixed hearing loss is a combination of conductive hearing loss and sensorineural hearing loss. What you can do: Contact a hearing provider to schedule a professional evaluation.