Answering the Question: What is Conductive Hearing Loss?

An individual who suffers from conductive hearing loss has difficulty hearing due to a problem with their ear’s ability to conduct sound waves. A congenital absence or malformation can result in this type of hearing loss or it may be due to an obstruction in the ear canal. Full restoration of hearing is possible with the correct treatment for many varieties of conductive hearing loss.

Conductive hearing loss can be a result of one of several congenital issues. For instance, a person can be born with an ear canal that isn’t fully open, or their ear canal might not have developed at all. Proper hearing may be impeded by a deformation in inner ear components. Many of these congenital issues can be remedied via surgery. Those that cannot may be remedied with a hearing aid. Conductive hearing loss as a result of congenital issues is less frequent than other reasons.

Wax or fluid build-up in the outer ear is one of the more frequent causes of conductive hearing loss. Ear wax buildup and ear infections can lower a person’s ability to hear clearly. Prescribed antibiotics can help to resolve ear infections, while a simple cleaning can be enough to address a buildup of ear wax.

Buildup in the middle ear may also result in conductive hearing loss. This issue is most frequently attributable to fluid accumulation. Often caused by ear infections, this problem is widespread in kids. Sinus pressure from allergies or the common cold can put pressure on the middle ear, putting a damper on a person’s hearing. A much less common cause of hearing loss in the middle ear is tumors.

Conductive hearing loss may be caused by other problems, such as the presence of a foreign body in the ear canal or a perforated eardrum. This type of hearing loss can occur on its own, but it may also occur in conjunction with losses from noise damage. You’ll want to consult a hearing care specialist without delay if you,a friend or family member are experiencing inexplicable hearing loss. Hearing can often be completely restored with the appropriate treatment plan.