Hear What You Have Been Missing
Understand the cause of hearing changes with comprehensive diagnostic evaluation.
Understanding the Cause of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is one of the most common conditions I evaluate as an ear specialist. It can affect one or both ears, develop gradually or suddenly, and range from mild to profound. An accurate diagnosis of the type and cause is essential before determining the appropriate treatment.
Types of Hearing Loss
Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive Hearing Loss
This occurs when sound cannot travel efficiently through the outer or middle ear. Causes may include earwax buildup, middle ear fluid, eardrum perforation, otosclerosis, and middle ear infections. Many causes of conductive hearing loss can be surgically corrected.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
This results from damage to the inner ear, or cochlea, or the auditory nerve. Common causes include age-related hearing loss, noise-induced hearing loss, and sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
Mixed Hearing Loss
Mixed Hearing Loss
This involves both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.
Evaluating Hearing Loss
I use a detailed medical history, examination of the ear canal and eardrum, and audiometric testing to evaluate hearing loss. The goal is to identify the type of hearing loss and determine whether there is a treatable cause.
Treatment Options Based on the Cause
Treatment depends on the type and underlying cause of hearing loss. Conductive causes, including:
Eardrum Perforations
Ossicular Chain Problems
Otosclerosis
Sensorineural hearing loss may be managed with hearing aids or cochlear implant evaluation. Sudden sensorineural hearing loss requires urgent evaluation.
When Hearing Loss Needs Evaluation
I recommend an evaluation for any noticeable change in hearing, especially when hearing loss occurs suddenly, affects one ear more than the other, or occurs with tinnitus, dizziness, or ear fullness.