What is conductive hearing loss?

Understanding conductive hearing loss

Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves cannot reach the inner ear. There could be a number of different reasons. 

Some of the causes of conductive hearing loss include:

  • A build-up of earwax in the outer ear stopping sound getting to the ear drum
  • Ear infection or inflammation in the outer ear (Otitis Externa) or middle ear (Otitis Media)
  • A build-up of fluid in the middle ear (Glue ear)
  • Perforated eardrum
  • A foreign body
  • Abnormal bone growth in the middle ear (otosclerosis)

Ear Blockages

A build-up of wax or fluid in the ear can cause hearing loss. This can be a symptom of an ear infection, or it may just be an accumulation of hard earwax. Ear drops can be used to soften and loosen earwax. If this doesn't work, contact your local Amplifon store to discuss the best options. At Amplifon, many of our clinics offer wax removal using microsuction. If you need any advice and support, our Audiologists are only a phone call away.

Perforated eardrum

This can be caused by an infection in the middle ear, a severe blow to the ear or damage caused by a foreign body (e.g a cotton swab used to clean the ear). As a result earache or discomfort and loss of hearing could be the cause. The eardrum has great healing abilities and can often heal itself within a few months, but if pain persists for more than two days, we recommend making an appointment to see your doctor.

Otosclerosis

This is where there is abnormal bone growth in the middle ear, which can interfere with the transmission of sound leading which can lead to gradual hearing loss. It typically develops in your 20s or 30s and can be treated with surgery, or with hearing aids.

These conditions can affect one or both ears and can often be cured by medicine or surgery. However, if you are experiencing conductive hearing loss, you may also benefit from wearing hearing aids

Bone Conduction device

You could also consider to adopt a Bone Conduction hearing device AdHear by MedEl.

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