Understanding the Main Types and Causes of Hearing Impairment
This article explains the three main types of hearing loss—conductive, sensorineural, and mixed—and their causes, including structural issues, infections, noise exposure, aging, and genetic factors. It provides essential information to understand hearing impairments and their origins across different age groups.
Hearing impairment varies from mild to severe and can affect individuals of all ages. It may arise from viral infections, aging, nerve damage, or injuries caused by noise exposure. Some infants are born deaf due to genetic factors, a condition called congenital hearing loss. Hearing deficits acquired later in life are known as obtained hearing loss. Here, we explore the three primary types of hearing issues and their underlying causes.
Conductive Hearing Loss
This form occurs when issues affect the eardrum, ear canal, or the tiny bones (malleus, incus, stapes) in the middle ear.
Various factors contribute to this condition, including structural abnormalities in the ear or middle ear, fluid buildup from colds, infections, allergies, Eustachian tube dysfunction, perforated eardrum, benign tumors, and other issues. Otosclerosis, a disease harming the small bones, can impair hearing. Earwax buildup or foreign objects in the ear can also impact hearing health.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SNHL)
Inner ear problems or nerve damage lead to sensorineural hearing loss. Causes include viral infections, head injuries, exposure to loud noise, aging, genetic factors, Meniere’s disease, inner ear malformations, otosclerosis (autoimmune), and the side effects of ototoxic medications used for illnesses like cancer.
Mixed Hearing Loss
Some individuals experience both conductive and sensorineural loss, known as mixed hearing impairment. Traumas such as head injuries or prolonged exposure to loud music, especially in older adults, are common causes.
