Types of Hearing Loss
Sometimes our hearing doesn't work the way it should. Hearing loss can affect one ear or both ears and can have many different causes.
There are four main types of hearing loss, and usually, each type is treatable.
Conductive
Hearing Loss
When the outer or middle ear cannot conduct sound properly, this is known as conductive hearing loss.
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Sensorineural
Hearing Loss
When the hair cells of the cochlea are missing or damaged, this is known as sensorineural hearing loss. This can have a genetic cause, be the result of head trauma or exposure to loud noise, or something else in the environment. Sensorineural hearing loss is also a common part of the aging process.
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Mixed
Hearing Loss
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of both sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. It results from problems in both the inner and the outer or middle ear.
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Neural
Hearing Loss
When the auditory nerve is damaged or missing, this is known as a neural hearing loss. Hearing aids and cochlear implants cannot help because the nerve is not able to pass on sound information to the brain.
In many cases, however, an Auditory Brainstem Implant (ABI) may be an option.
