Conductive hearing loss sufferers have difficulty hearing caused by a problem with their ear’s ability to conduct sound waves. This form of hearing loss arises from a blockage in the ear canal, but it also may be due to a malformation or congenital absence in the ear. In many cases conductive hearing loss can be treated, totally restoring normal hearing.
Numerous hereditary issues can cause conductive hearing loss. For instance, someone can be born with an unopened ear canal, or their ear canal might not have developed at all. Structures within the inner ear can be malformed, curtailing normal hearing. Surgery may address some congenital issues. Others may be best addressed with hearing aids. Congenital problems are among the less frequent causes of conductive hearing loss.
Among the more frequent grounds for conductive hearing loss is a buildup of fluid or wax in the outer ear. This sort of accumulation (often caused by ear infections) can adversely impact a person’s hearing. Ear infections are often treated with prescription antibiotics while cleaning the ear may be sufficient for removing the wax buildup.
Buildup in the middle ear may also be responsible for conductive hearing loss. This issue is most often caused by the accumulation of fluid. Frequently a result of ear infections, this problem is prevalent in kids. Sinus pressure from allergies or the common cold can put pressure on the middle ear, putting a damper on a person’s ability to hear. Rarely conductive hearing loss may be caused by tumors in the middle ear.
Other issues may cause conductive hearing loss, including perforated eardrums and foreign bodies in the ear canal. Conductive hearing loss commonly happens on its own, but there is the potential for it to overlap with other types of hearing loss. Be sure to speak with a hearing care specialist immediately if you or a loved one are experiencing unexplained hearing loss. Oftentimes complete hearing can be brought back with appropriate treatment.
