Not all hearing loss is created equal. This is why an individualized, personal approach to your ears and hearing is crucial. A complete case history and hearing evaluation will help determine a proper course of action. Let’s take a minute to address a few different types of hearing loss.
Conductive hearing loss. This is a hearing loss that is due to an issue with the outer or middle ear. Oftentimes this type of hearing loss can be medically corrected. Cerumen (wax) may just need to be removed from your ear canals, or perhaps you have an ear infection that has caused fluid build up in your middle ear space, causing a temporary hearing loss. Additionally, any malfunction with the bones in your middle ear space could cause conductive hearing loss, along with a ruptured eardrum or a bony growth in your ear canal.
Sensorineural hearing loss. This type of hearing loss is caused from inner ear or nerve damage. Your inner ear houses your organ of hearing and, for example, damaged hair cells from noise exposure or other environmental factors can cause permanent hearing loss. Typically, hearing aids are recommended, with presbycusis (age-related hearing loss) being a common diagnosis we help treat.
Mixed hearing loss. As implied, this is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. You may have an underlying sensorineural loss that is exasperated by wax or fluid in the ear. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help you return to your baseline, sensorineural hearing loss.
An initial hearing test is very helpful so we can monitor hearing changes over time and keep your treatment plan current.
Please reach out with any questions! Call us (630) 357-5287, or email us at info@napervillehearing.com.
