Types of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can occur as a result of a disorder of any part of the hearing system. Hearing loss as a result of a problem with the outer or middle ear is known as conductive hearing loss. Hearing loss as a result of damage to the inner part of the ear (cochlea) is known as sensorineural hearing loss. These are the two main types of hearing loss.
Conductive Hearing Loss can occur when there is a blockage of the passage of sound
through the outer or middle ear, such as excessive ear wax, or a build of fluid
in the middle ear known as ‘glue ear’. Conductive
hearing loss can also occur as a result of a problem with the structure or
movement of the bones in the middle ear.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss can occur if there is damage to the nerve endings or ‘hair cells’ in the inner part of the ear. It can range from mild, moderate, severe to profound and is most often irreversible. The most usual cause of this type of hearing loss is age related hearing loss (presbyacusis) in which the hair cells have deteriorated over time with aging. Noise exposure without ear protection can also result in damage to the hair cells over time, resulting in hearing loss. Sensorineural hearing loss can be as a result of certain infections, certain strong medications or medical conditions that affect the hearing system. Sensorineural hearing loss can be present from birth due to congenital, hereditary or genetic factors.
Mixed Hearing Loss can occur- where there is a conductive hearing loss and a sensorineural hearing loss occurring at the same time.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss can occur if there is damage to the nerve endings or ‘hair cells’ in the inner part of the ear. It can range from mild, moderate, severe to profound and is most often irreversible. The most usual cause of this type of hearing loss is age related hearing loss (presbyacusis) in which the hair cells have deteriorated over time with aging. Noise exposure without ear protection can also result in damage to the hair cells over time, resulting in hearing loss. Sensorineural hearing loss can be as a result of certain infections, certain strong medications or medical conditions that affect the hearing system. Sensorineural hearing loss can be present from birth due to congenital, hereditary or genetic factors.
Mixed Hearing Loss can occur- where there is a conductive hearing loss and a sensorineural hearing loss occurring at the same time.
The Effects of Hearing Loss
Children- Hearing loss can affect children of all ages. It can be present from birth or develop during childhood. It is well recognized that in babies and children, hearing loss whether temporary or permanent, can cause problems with speech development and clarity. Hearing loss in children can also effect academic progress and social interaction. The identification of a hearing loss at a young age brings with it the opportunity for positive intervention and management.
Adults- In adults, hearing loss can occur at any age, often developing gradually over time with age. Hearing loss can lead to difficulties in many aspects of day- to- day life such as struggling to follow conversations when in noisy surroundings and difficulty hearing on the telephone. Over time, these hearing difficulties can result in social withdrawal. The first step in dealing with hearing loss is to have a hearing assessment so that you can get the right advice about digital hearing aids
What to do?
If you are concerned about your hearing, your child's hearing or indeed another family member, please contact Midwest Hearing Clinic to arrange an appointment for private audiological assessment on 086 4544714 or click on the button below to fill in an appointment request form.
If you are concerned about your hearing, your child's hearing or indeed another family member, please contact Midwest Hearing Clinic to arrange an appointment for private audiological assessment on 086 4544714 or click on the button below to fill in an appointment request form.
