OK, so what does it matter there’s different types of hearing loss – if you can’t hear, you can’t hear, right?
Well, wrong. You might be surprised to learn that it’s actually IMPERATIVE that you know which type of hearing loss you have, as the intensity differs depending on where in the ear the problem is.
Did we also mention that by knowing exactly what type of hearing loss you have, we’re able to treat you quicker, more effectively and with as little inconvenience as possible?
There are 3 different type of hearing loss; here’s what you need to know…
(In easy-to-understand English of course)
#1 Sensorineural
By far the most common form, this type of hearing loss is irreversible but effectively treatable with hearing aids.
Causes include: Exposure to frequent loud noises; an infection; head trauma; or even just age or genetics
Symptoms include: Muffled hearing and tinnitus, as well as struggling with basic comprehension of speech when you’re not face to face with the speaker.
Problem points: Cochlea, or the little hair-like hearing nerve pathways in the inner ear (these are the things that carry all the information about loudness and clarity of sounds to your brain)
What should you do if you have Sensorineural hearing loss?
Firstly, accepting this problem isn’t going to go away by itself is the first thing you need to do. Once you’ve done that, book your hearing evaluation with our team of experience doctors here –we’ll book you in right away. We’ll do a few tests and then, depending on the results, we’ll guide you through your options, which could include a hearing aid demonstration.
#2 Conductive
Still a relatively common form of hearing loss, the good news about this one is that it can be treated to reverse the damage.
The problem is, unless this is treated early during your first signs of hearing loss, then this can become much more severe.
We find that a lot of patients find themselves in trouble because they don’t know the type of loss that they have until they see us and assume it’s one issue when it’s something entirely different, hurting their ability to get treatment.
Causes include: Fluid in the middle ear (usually from a cold); ear infections, perforated eardrum, or malformation of outer ear/ear canal/middle ear
Symptoms include: Build-up of earwax; high volumes appear lower; accumulation of fluid in the middle ear that can lead to soreness; abnormal bone growth (rare)
Problem points: The outer ear, eardrum and the little bones in the inner ear.
What should you do if you have Conductive hearing loss?
You can start by helping yourself by investing in an ear cleanser or wax remover and actively de-blocking your ear manually. If, after doing so you feel the problem still hasn’t gone away, we’re here to help you. Come and pay us a visit as soon as possible. Usually, we’ll be able to sort out the problem there and then – problem solved.
#3 Mixed
As the name suggests, this type of hearing loss combines the causes and symptoms of both Sensorineural and Conductive hearing loss.
Most commonly occurring when the ear is affected by a trauma or infection, the symptoms work on a vice versa basis, for example, a conductive hearing loss symptom could be the result of a Sensorineural cause.
What should you do if you have Mixed hearing loss?
If you believe that you have this hearing loss but you’re yet to be tested or haven’t been tested in the past 12 months, then we strongly encourage you to come and see us.
If this is caught early, we can then recommend either wax removal or give you a referral to an Ear, Nose and Throat physician.
Whatever the type, always remember…
Audiologists exist to make it easier for you to identify and treat your hearing loss, so instead of trying to fix it by yourself, grant yourself the peace of mind that comes with ‘being on the safe side’ and book yourself an appointment with us here at Clarity Hearing.
With offices in Conroe, The Woodlands, Willowbrook and North Cypress – we’re ready to assist you with some friendly advice on how to manage your hearing loss.
Book your hearing evaluation here.
