Hearing loss is a prevalent issue that affects millions of people worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 466 million individuals have disabling hearing loss, and this number is projected to rise.

Maybe you've recently realized that you sometimes mishear people. Or maybe you're worried about a family member who has a hearing problem. That's where this guide comes in.

We’re about to take a deep dive into the 7 major types of hearing loss. Not only that, but we will also address those questions that may have been floating around in your mind.

7 Major Types of Hearing Loss: Symptoms, Causes, & Solutions

Conductive Hearing Loss

Conductive hearing loss occurs when there is a problem in the outer or middle ear that obstructs the normal transmission of sound waves. Common causes include earwax buildup, which can physically block the ear canal; middle ear infections, often caused by bacteria or viruses that lead to fluid accumulation and inflammation; and perforated eardrums, which can result from trauma, such as a sudden loud noise or an injury to the ear.

Symptoms typically involve a muffled or dulled perception of sound. People with conductive hearing loss may find it easier to hear in quiet environments but struggle when there is background noise. For example, they might have difficulty following a conversation in a crowded room.

Fortunately, many conductive hearing losses are treatable. Earwax can be removed using ear wax cleaning tools, or by a healthcare professional, often using gentle irrigation or suction. In the case of middle ear infections, antibiotics can be used to clear the infection, and in some cases, a small tube can be inserted into the eardrum to equalize pressure and drain fluid, a procedure known as a tympanostomy.

Hearing aids can also be highly effective in compensating for the reduced sound conduction, with success rates of up to 90% in some cases.

Sensorineural Hearing Loss

This is the most common type of permanent hearing loss and is caused by damage to the inner ear, specifically the hair cells that convert sound vibrations into electrical signals, or to the auditory nerve that transmits these signals to the brain. Aging is a significant factor, known as presbycusis, where the natural wear and tear on the hair cells over time leads to a progressive decline in hearing, especially in the high-frequency range.

Exposure to loud noises, either from occupational hazards like working in a construction site or recreational activities such as attending concerts without proper ear protection, can also cause irreversible damage. Genetic factors can play a role, with certain inherited conditions predisposing individuals to early-onset sensorineural hearing loss.

Symptoms include difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments, and often the presence of tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. While sensorineural hearing loss is irreversible in the sense that the damaged hair cells or nerve fibers cannot be fully repaired, modern technology offers solutions. Hearing aids can amplify sounds to make them more audible and help with speech recognition.

In more severe cases, cochlear implants may be considered. These devices bypass the damaged hair cells and directly stimulate the auditory nerve, providing a sense of sound to those who would otherwise have very limited hearing.

Mixed Hearing Loss

As the name suggests, mixed hearing loss combines elements of both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. It often arises when an underlying conductive issue, such as chronic middle ear infections, goes untreated for an extended period and is compounded by age-related or noise-induced sensorineural damage.

The symptoms can be more pronounced than either type alone, with a significant reduction in overall hearing ability and difficulty distinguishing different sounds.

Treatment requires a comprehensive approach. Initially, the conductive component should be addressed, which may involve treating the infection, repairing a perforated eardrum, or dealing with any other physical obstructions.

Once the conductive issue is resolved or improved, attention can then turn to managing the sensorineural aspect, typically through the use of hearing aids or other assistive devices.

Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSHL)

This is a medical emergency that demands immediate attention. Sudden SSHL occurs when there is a rapid and unexplained loss of hearing, usually in one ear, and is often accompanied by symptoms like dizziness and tinnitus.

The causes can be diverse, including viral infections that affect the inner ear, vascular problems such as a sudden reduction in blood flow to the cochlea, or autoimmune responses where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the inner ear structures.

Given the urgency, it is crucial to seek medical help within 72 hours of symptom onset. Treatment typically involves a course of corticosteroids, which can help reduce inflammation and potentially reverse the hearing loss.

In some cases, hyperbaric oxygen therapy may also be recommended, where the patient breathes pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. The overall recovery rate with prompt treatment can be around 60%, but this decreases significantly with delay.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)

NIHL is a preventable yet increasingly common form of hearing loss, especially in today's noisy world. It is caused by prolonged or repeated exposure to loud sounds, exceeding 85 decibels for an extended period. This can include occupational exposures like working in factories with heavy machinery, or recreational activities like using headphones at high volumes for long durations.

Early symptoms may be temporary, such as a ringing in the ears after leaving a noisy environment, known as temporary threshold shift. However, with continued exposure, permanent damage can occur, leading to a permanent threshold shift and a gradual decline in hearing.

Prevention is key, and this involves using proper ear protection, such as earplugs with a high noise reduction rating (NRR) or earmuffs, and following guidelines like the 60/60 rule for headphone use, which suggests limiting volume to 60% and using it for no more than 60 minutes at a time.

In the early stages, sound therapy may offer some relief and potentially slow down the progression of hearing loss.

Presbycusis (Age-Related Hearing Loss)

As we age, the likelihood of experiencing hearing loss increases. Presbycusis is a progressive type of hearing loss that primarily affects the high-frequency sounds. It is due to the natural degeneration of the hair cells in the inner ear over time. This can make it difficult to distinguish between certain consonants, like “s,” “sh,” and “f,” which are crucial for understanding speech.

Symptoms develop gradually, and many people may not notice the initial changes. However, as it progresses, communication difficulties can arise, especially in group settings or when watching TV.

Treatment mainly revolves around the use of hearing aids, and it is often recommended to use them in both ears (binaural) to improve sound localization and overall hearing quality.

Additionally, cognitive exercises can be beneficial as there is some evidence suggesting a link between hearing loss and cognitive decline.

Childhood Hearing Loss

Childhood hearing loss can have a profound impact on a child's development, particularly in terms of language acquisition and educational progress. It can be either congenital, caused by genetic factors or maternal infections during pregnancy, such as rubella, or acquired later in life due to illnesses like meningitis or head injuries.

Symptoms in infants and young children may include a lack of response to sounds, delayed speech development, or inattentiveness. Early detection is crucial, and this is achieved through newborn hearing screening programs, typically using otoacoustic emissions (OAE) tests.

If hearing loss is detected, timely intervention is essential. For severe cases, cochlear implants may be recommended as early as 12 months of age to provide the best chance for normal language development.

Learn more: Is Hydrogen Peroxide Safe for Cleaning Ears?

FAQs: Common Questions About Hearing Loss Types

How do I know what type of hearing loss I have?

The most accurate way is to undergo a comprehensive audiological evaluation, including pure-tone audiometry. In general, if you find that your hearing is better in quiet environments and muffled in noisy ones, it could indicate conductive hearing loss. On the other hand, if you struggle with speech clarity, especially in noisy settings, and may have tinnitus, sensorineural hearing loss is more likely. However, a professional diagnosis is always necessary.

Can hearing loss types be reversed?

Conductive hearing loss has a good chance of being reversed or significantly improved, depending on the cause. For example, treating an ear infection or removing earwax can often restore normal hearing. Sensorineural hearing loss, unfortunately, is generally irreversible in the sense that the damaged hair cells cannot be fully repaired. However, with the use of hearing aids or cochlear implants, function can be restored to a large extent.

Do all types require hearing aids?

Not necessarily. Conductive hearing loss may only require temporary use of hearing aids until the underlying issue is resolved. In contrast, sensorineural and mixed hearing loss often benefit from long-term use of hearing aids or more advanced devices like cochlear implants, depending on the severity.

Is sudden hearing loss a medical emergency?

Absolutely. Sudden hearing loss requires immediate medical attention. As mentioned earlier, seeking treatment within 72 hours of symptom onset can greatly increase the chances of recovery. Delaying treatment can lead to permanent hearing loss.

Prevention, Treatment, & Rehabilitation

Prevention

• For conductive hearing loss, avoid inserting sharp objects into the ear canal to prevent earwax impaction and ear trauma. Manage allergies that can lead to middle ear problems.

• To prevent noise-induced hearing loss, always use ear protection in noisy environments. This includes using earplugs with an NRR of at least 25 or earmuffs. Follow the 60/60 rule for headphone use.

Treatment Matrix

• For those with sensorineural hearing loss, lip-reading exercises can enhance communication. Auditory training programs can also help improve speech recognition.

• In cases of childhood hearing loss, speech therapy is crucial to support language development.

• For individuals with presbycusis, engaging in cognitive activities like puzzles and reading can potentially slow down cognitive decline associated with hearing loss.

Conclusion

Each type has its own symptoms, causes and treatment options. Remember, early detection and intervention are key. Don't ignore any signs of hearing loss. If you suspect anything, seek out a board-certified audiologist near you immediately. Your hearing is a valuable asset, and protecting it starts with understanding and taking action.

And don't forget about the importance of proper ear care. The bebird ear cleaning camera can be a great helper. It offers a high definition view of the ear canal, allowing you to see earwax clearly and clean it more precisely.

Its flexible design can reach those tricky areas, and the skin - friendly material ensures comfort. Consider using it to maintain your ear health and enhance your overall hearing protection routine.

Related: Do Ear Cameras Work? Here's the Answer You Want to Know