What is Conductive Hearing Loss | Causes, Types, And Symptoms
Conductive hearing loss is a common condition that affects the quality of sound we get in the ear. This type of hearing loss can be attributed to a lot of factors. And this is why it is usually mistaken for other kinds of hearing loss.
However, there are certain signs and symptoms you can use to identify this condition early and get the required medical care before it escalates. This guide will discuss the causes of conductive hearing loss, its symptoms, and the treatments available.
What is Conductive Hearing Loss?
Conductive hearing loss is an ear illness that happens when sound passing through the ear is blocked at the external or middle ear. Usually, people with conductive hearing loss have a hard time hearing because sound energy reduces on the way to the cochlea in the inner ear.
Causes of Conductive Hearing Loss
Several factors cause conductive hearing loss. The common reasons for this ear defect include:
- Accumulation of wax in the ear canal.
- Defect or hole in the eardrum.
- Otosclerosis; is a defect or problem with the three tiny bones in the ear, especially when there is an abnormal bone growth near the middle ear.
- Fluid in the space between the eardrum and cochlea.
- Chronic ear infection, especially in the middle ear. This is known as Otitis Media.
What are Common Symptoms of Conductive Hearing Loss?
The symptoms and severity of conductive hearing loss vary according to the exact cause. However, specific symptoms are shared amongst conductive hearing loss patients. These are;
- Muffled hearing
- The sudden or steady loss of hearing
- Full or “stuffy” sensation in the ear
- Dizziness
- Draining of the ear
- Pain or tenderness in the ear
How Is Conductive Hearing Loss Diagnosed
Diagnosing conductive hearing loss usually involves a series of hearing tests, called audiograms. This will determine the severity of your hearing loss and the type. Based on the hearing test results and evaluations from your ENT specialist, you will receive various recommendations and treatment options.
Can You Treat Conductive Hearing Loss?
Yes, conductive hearing loss can be treated. But you will need to schedule an appointment with an otolaryngologist who will then make a precise diagnosis.
Most conductive hearing loss cases are temporary and can be cured by appropriate medical treatment, so it is crucial to seek immediate medical assistance when you start noticing symptoms. For other cases of conductive hearing loss, you will be asked to get a hearing aid or, for severe cases, surgery.
Need to Schedule a Hearing Test?
If you are experiencing symptoms of conductive hearing loss, we recommend scheduling an appointment with a qualified audiologist. As stated above, they will run a hearing test.
Generally, this test will determine your ability to hear high and low frequencies. You will also be asked to identify tones and messages at different frequencies. The results will determine the severity of the conductive hearing loss, and appropriate treatments will be prescribed. You can schedule a hearing test here.
Have a Hearing Test Already?
If your hearing tests results are out and your audiologist recommends a hearing aid, the next step would be to carefully select what hearing aid is best for your needs. Below, we list some of the most versatile hearing aids in the market today. If you need help with hearing aid recommendations, you can upload your hearing test here and a Hearing Aid Specialist will assist you.
Best Hearing Aids in 2021
Selecting the appropriate hearing aids for your condition can be a bit overwhelming. And this is partly because there are many hearing aids in the market right now, with each performing specific functions. This list will discuss the best hearing aids in the market based on reviews, functionality, and cost.
Signia Pure Charge & Go 5X Hearing Aid
Signia Pure Charge&Go 5X merges all the benefits of Signia Xperience with Li-ion rechargeability and fully-featured Bluetooth connectivity. It offers universal connectivity and utilizes a non-streamer for other devices—all in an incredibly light design. The Signia Pure Charge&Go 5X also supports accessories like the StreamLine Mic and StreamLine TV. It costs $2646 for both ears.
Widex-evoke 440-Ric-312d- Hearing Aid
The Widex evoke 440 hearing aids provide a seamless hearing experience. The device boasts a processing chip that features independent channel separation with filters that clean sounds and audio while streaming. It also features Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning technology. The Widex Evoke 440 costs $3454 for both ears.
ReSound LiNX Quattro 9
The ReSound LiNX Quattro 9 is one of ReSound’s Flagship hearing aid. This means that it provides you with the best hearing aids in the market today have to offer - both in technology and functionality. This hearing aid gives you access to more sounds, possesses perfectly balanced sound when streaming, and comes with an improved hearing aid wireless system. It costs $3944 for both ears.
Check out our wide variety of hearing aids and save up to 70% OFF on quality name brands. Get unlimited hearing aid support from our on-demand team of experts. Call us today: 1-844-215-7248 or 1-929-207-0001. (Get FREE Wax Guards when you sign up for our mailing list - click the spinner wheel at the bottom right!)