Do you sometimes have trouble hearing what others say?
If you suspect you have a hearing problem, you’re not the only one. Hearing problems occur due to many factors, from genetics to exposure to loud volumes.
If you’re concerned about changes in your hearing, there are a variety of causes for hearing issues. Learning about the different types of hearing problems is the first step in your diagnosis.
And if your worst suspicions are confirmed, there are ways to make things easier. Read on to learn everything you need to know about the most common hearing problems.
Contents
Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound cannot travel efficiently from the outer to the inner ear. Various factors can cause this, such as:
- Earwax build-up
- Fluid in the middle ear
- Perforation of the eardrum
- Infections
- Abnormalities
Conductive hearing loss may result in a decreased ability to hear faint sounds or a complete inability to detect sound. It is usually treated with medications or surgery to correct the underlying issue, such as removing ear wax or draining fluid from the middle ear.
Individuals affected by conductive hearing loss may also benefit from using nano rechargeable hearing aids to amplify sound, which can help fill in any gaps in hearing.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SNHL) is the most common hearing problem. It affects the inner ear and the nerve pathways leading to the brain.
SNHL occurs when the tiny hairs in the inner ear are damaged, preventing them from sending sound signals to the brain. The most common cause of SNHL is as follows:
- Aging
- Exposure to loud noises
- Viral infections
- Head trauma
- Medications
- Diseases
The primary symptoms of SNHL are:
- Difficulty hearing conversations
- Difficulty understanding speech
- Muffled hearing
- Ringing in the ears
It is essential to recognize the signs of SNHL to help treat and manage the symptoms.
Several treatments can improve an individual’s hearing, including:
- Hearing aids
- Cochlear implants
- Medication
- Counseling
Early diagnosis and proper treatment can help individuals better manage their hearing problems.
Mixed Hearing Loss
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. It is the most severe type of hearing loss and can vary significantly in severity.
This type of hearing loss involves damage to the inner ear, known as sensorineural hearing loss, and an inability to conduct sound due to blockage or other disruptions in the outer or middle ear, known as conductive hearing loss. People with mixed hearing loss often require a combination of medical and hearing aid interventions to treat their hearing loss effectively.
Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder
Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder (ANSD) is one of many hearing problems. It is a disorder of the auditory nerves and pathways in which sound is not transmitted correctly to the brain.
Instead of a sound being transmitted cleanly, it can be distorted, delayed, or misplaced. ANSD can affect children and adults, although it is most commonly seen in children.
Those with this disorder often have difficulty hearing tones and other subtle sounds and may have problems with hearing in both ears or seeing the sound visually.
Hear Me Out and Learn the Types of Hearing Problems
The many types of hearing problems cannot be ignored, as even minor issues can lead to more serious problems. It is essential to understand the different types of hearing issues, such as conductive hearing loss or sensorineural hearing loss, to identify and treat them.
Speak to your doctor or audiologist to get the help you need.
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