More than one in 10 people in the United States experience some form of hearing loss, ranging from mild to severe. Once hearing loss occurs, it often cannot be reversed, but there are some surgeries that can help improve hearing. It’s helpful to understand the types of hearing loss to be educated on how to protect and preserve your hearing as you move through life.
Types of Hearing Loss
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type of hearing loss and occurs because of damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve. This damage can be caused by aging, prolonged exposure to loud noise, infections or due to certain medications. Sensorineural hearing loss is typically irreversible because the delicate hair cells in the inner ear cannot regenerate once damaged.
Sensorineural hearing loss is best managed with the use of hearing aids, which can help amplify speech sounds, especially in noisy places like Aspen Coffee Company. This helps improve communication with others. Cochlear implants are also an option.
To protect against sensorineural hearing loss, avoid prolonged exposure to loud noises, take breaks from loud noises, limit headphone use at high volumes and wear hearing protection in loud settings often.
Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves cannot reach the inner ear due to a blockage or damage in the outer or middle ear. Common causes include ear infections, fluid in the ear, earwax buildup or a perforated eardrum. Unlike sensorineural hearing loss, conductive hearing loss is often reversible, if the cause can be treated.
Treatment for conductive hearing loss may involve removing the blockage, treating the infection or undergoing surgery to repair structural issues in the ear. To prevent conductive hearing loss, practice good ear hygiene by avoiding cotton swabs or other objects that can push earwax deeper into the ear canal. Additionally, treat ear infections promptly and see your doctor if you experience persistent ear discomfort.
Mixed Hearing Loss
Mixed hearing loss is the presence of hearing loss in both the inner ear, similar to sensorineural hearing loss, and the presence of hearing loss in the outer and middle ear. This can result from age-related hearing loss or chronic ear infections.
The reversibility of mixed hearing loss depends on the underlying causes. If hearing loss is present in the outer and middle ear, it may be reversed depending on the cause.
Sudden Hearing Loss
Sudden hearing loss is an unexpected and rapid loss of hearing, usually in one ear. Causes can be difficult to identify but may include viral infections, head trauma or a blockage in blood flow to the inner ear. This type of hearing loss is considered a medical emergency, and immediate treatment is essential for the best chance of recovery. In some cases, sudden hearing loss can be reversed if it is treated promptly.
To protect against sudden hearing loss, maintain overall health, including cardiovascular health, and seek immediate medical attention if you experience a sudden decrease in hearing.
While not all types of hearing loss are reversible, taking proactive steps can help protect your hearing and minimize the risk of further damage. If you suspect hearing loss, consult with a hearing specialist to explore treatment and management options. Contact Hearing Care by Hough to schedule a hearing evaluation today.