The three main section of the ear are termed as the outer, middle and inner ear. The types of hearing loss is generally identified by detecting which section of the hearing pathway is affected. The identification of the affected section in the ear is very important in the determination of hearing loss and hearing loss treatment. Scroll on to know the 3 types of hearing loss.
Conductive Hearing Loss:
Sound waves originating from any source are initially received by the outer ear. Then, it reaches the middle ear. When hearing loss occurs due to the problems in outer or middle ear, it is termed as conductive hearing loss. Such problems mean that the hearing is not conducted properly through the outer or middle ear. Hence, this type of hearing loss is termed as conductive hearing loss. Generally, this type of hearing loss may be cured with proper medication. If not cured with the help of medication or surgery, patients with such problems can be benefited from using a hearing aid, because sound amplification is what that they need the most.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss:
After sound is conducted through the outer or middle ear, it reaches inner ear (innermost part of the ear). When there is a damage in any part of the inner ear or auditory nerve that connects the inner ear to the brain, hearing is hugely affected. Such problems can be termed as sensorineural hearing loss. Hearing loss due to disorder in cochlea area of inner ear is of sensory type and if concerning nerve disorders, then it is known as neural. Together it is known as sensorineural hearing loss. It is the most common type of hearing loss.
Mixed Hearing loss:
A combination of both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss (problems in both outer/middle and inner ear) is termed as mixed hearing loss. Sometimes, if conductive hearing loss is neglected and left untreated for a longer period, this type of hearing loss occurs. Hearing aids or other hearing devices can help in hearing restoration for most of the patients suffering from this type of hearing loss.
Other types:
Pre-lingual or before learning language/speaking
Post-lingual or after learning language/speaking
Congenital hearing loss or present at birth
Acquired or hearing loss after birth due to one/more reasons
Hearing loss in one ear is termed as unilateral hearing loss
Hearing loss in both ears is termed as bilateral hearing loss
Melody Audiology 