There are three types of hearing loss:
- Conductive Hearing Loss: Results from a problem with the conduction of sound from the outer ear (the part you can see) to the inner ear (where the nerve is located). This can result from wax buildup, ear infections, trauma to the ear or other problem with the eardrum or bones that conduct sound through the middle ear. Those with this type of loss have a problem of insufficient loudness rather than clarity of hearing.
- Sensorineural Hearing Loss: Involves deterioration of the inner ear or the hearing nerve. The aging process, noise-exposure, some cancer treatments, illness, and other degenerative processes can cause this loss. This type of hearing loss often impairs understanding ability.
- Mixed Hearing Loss: Occurs when there are problems in both the inner ear and outer or middle ear. It’s a combination of a conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.
