When a patient has trouble hearing because of the ear’s inability to conduct sound waves, she is suffering from conductive hearing loss. A malformation or congenital absence can cause this form of hearing loss or it can be caused by an obstruction in the ear canal. Many varieties of conductive hearing loss can be treated, allowing the individual to enjoy a normal level of hearing.
Conductive hearing loss may be caused by one of several congenital problems. An individual can be born without an ear canal or the ear canal might not have opened correctly at birth. Components within the inner ear can be deformed, preventing normal hearing. Many of these congenital problems can be addressed via surgery. Hearing aids can treat other situations where surgery is not appropriate. Conductive hearing loss as a result of congenital issues is less common than other causes.
Wax or fluid accumulation in the outer ear is one of the more common reasons for conductive hearing loss. This sort of accumulation (frequently caused by ear infections) can negatively affect a person’s hearing. Prescribed antibiotics can help to clear up ear infections, while a simple cleaning may be sufficient to address a buildup of ear wax.
Conductive hearing loss can also be caused by buildup in the middle ear. Fluid accumulation is the most frequent genesis of this issue. Ear infections are a frequent reason for this problem, particularly in kids. Sinus pressure from allergies or the common cold can put pressure on the middle ear, muffling one’s hearing. Tumors in the middle ear can also be responsible for conductive hearing loss, but this condition is much less common.
Other troubles may cause conductive hearing loss, including problems like foreign bodies in the ear canal and perforated eardrums. This type of hearing loss may appear on its own, but it may also happen in addition to hearing loss due to noise damage. Be sure to consult a hearing care specialist without delay if you, a friend or family member are experiencing unexplained hearing loss. There exists a good possibility that proper treatment will fully bring back your hearing.