Conductive hearing loss (CHL) is caused by a problem in the functioning or blockage of the outer or middle ear. Conductive hearing loss prevent sound from being able to reach the inner ear. Conductive hearing loss is not like sensorineural hearing loss which is a permanent hearing impairment due to a deformity or damage to the cochlea or Auditory nerve.
Ear infections are common cause of temporary conductive hearing loss. Swimmer's ear is an infection of the outer ear which can cause mild hearing loss. Most cases of conductive hearing loss from ear infections are caused by middle ear infections. Middle ear infections are a common cause of conductive hearing loss in children.
Fluid in the middle ear or malfunction of the tiny bones of the middle ear can cause conductive hearing loss. A medical condition that causes rigidity of the Auditory ossicles of the middle ear is called otosclerosis. The rigidity prevents the ossicles from being able to transmit sounds.
Sometimes, fluid can become trapped in the ear canal. This is a condition called glue ear. A doctor can usually drain the fluid during a regular office visit. The density of the fluid affects how much hearing loss a person with glue ear has.
Ceruminosis is the buildup of hard wax in the ear. The ear wax can block sound from being able to reach the inner ear. The ear wax can be removed by a physician or with the use of the ear wax removal kit.
Injury to the eardrum can cause it not to vibrate to pass sounds to the inner ear. Severe damage to the eardrum may need to be surgically repaired, but most damage to the eardrum heals on its own.
Conductive hearing loss is often either temporary or treatable. A blockage of the ear canal often causes muffled hearing. Conductive hearing loss from a blockage is restored after the blockage is removed.
People who develop hearing loss should seek prompt medical attention. A physician is likely to conduct an examination of the ears and a hearing test to determine the accurate diagnosis and proper treatment. Prompt medical treatment may prevent a permanent hearing impairment.
More Information:
Categories
