Understanding the Main Types and Causes of Hearing Loss
This article covers the three main types of hearing loss—conductive, sensorineural, and mixed—along with their causes, including infections, genetic factors, noise exposure, and more. Understanding these types helps in early diagnosis and effective management of hearing impairments. The content emphasizes the importance of consulting healthcare professionals for proper treatment and clarifies common misconceptions about hearing loss causes.
Understanding the Main Types and Causes of Hearing Loss
Hearing impairments can range from slight to severe and may develop at any age due to various reasons. Causes include viral infections, age-related decline, nerve damage, or noise exposure. Some infants are born with hearing impairments caused by genetic factors. Congenital hearing loss occurs at birth, whereas acquired hearing loss develops later in life. Here, we explore the three primary types of hearing loss and their common causes.
Conductive Hearing Loss
This type results from issues with the eardrum, ear canal, or the tiny bones in the middle ear (malleus, incus, stapes). Conditions such as ear canal malformation, middle ear infections, fluid buildup, or perforated eardrums can impair hearing. Other causes include benign tumors, earwax buildup, or foreign objects, which block sound transmission. Otosclerosis, a middle ear disease, can also hinder sound conduction.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SNHL)
This kind of hearing impairment stems from inner ear or nerve issues. Causes include viral infections, head injuries, exposure to loud noise, or natural aging. It may be hereditary or linked to conditions like Meniere’s disease, inner ear malformations, or autoimmune inner ear disorders like otosclerosis. Certain medications, especially ototoxic drugs used for cancer treatment, can also lead to nerve-related hearing loss.
Mixed Hearing Loss
When both conductive and sensorineural factors are involved, it is termed mixed hearing loss. Examples include head trauma or prolonged exposure to loud sounds, especially in older individuals.
