Which types of hearing loss are recognized in audiology?

The types of hearing loss recognized in audiology encompass three primary categories: conductive, sensorineural, and mixed.

Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves cannot effectively reach the inner ear due to issues in the outer or middle ear. These issues can be caused by ear infections, fluid in the middle ear, perforated eardrum, or otosclerosis, among other conditions. This type of hearing loss is often treatable and can be temporary in some cases.

Sensorineural hearing loss originates from problems with the inner ear or the auditory nerve, which affects the way sound is processed. This can be caused by aging, noise exposure, genetic factors, or illness, and it is often permanent. It represents the most common type of permanent hearing loss, impacting the clarity of sounds and the ability to understand speech.

Mixed hearing loss is a combination of both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. This means that there are problems in both the outer/middle ear and the inner ear or auditory nerve. The presence of both types of hearing loss can complicate the diagnosis and treatment, and management may need to address both aspects simultaneously.

Understanding these categories is essential for audiologists and health technicians in accurately diagnosing and recommending appropriate treatments for individuals with hearing