We often don’t think about our hearing until we start to experience hearing loss. It’s something taken for granted on a daily basis. We might not realize how important hearing is until it starts to disappear. Noticing signs early and seeking treatment right away is necessary to prevent further damage.

Hearing loss can begin at any age, and for a variety of different reasons. Any or all parts of the ear including inner, outer, middle, and the auditory nerve can be affected by hearing loss. Degrees of loss range from mild, moderate, severe, and profound. The four types of hearing loss are Conductive, Sensorineural, Mixed, and Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder.

Conductive Hearing Loss

Conductive hearing loss happens when sound cannot enter through the outer and middle parts of the ear and into the inner ear. Things that can cause this include fluid, foreign objects, allergies, a ruptured eardrum, and impacted earwax. The good news is that this type of hearing loss can be treated with medicine or surgery. 

Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type. If the inner ear or auditory nerve are not working properly, a person will experience this type of hearing loss. There are many different causes including aging, noise damage, drug side effects, auditory tumors, or a loud blast such as a gunshot or explosion. Hearing aids are a common treatment, but since this type is permanent it cannot be treated with medicine or surgery.

Mixed Hearing Loss

Mixed hearing loss affects all parts of the ear. It includes many traits of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss, as well as genetic disorders, infections, and head trauma. It commonly happens when the ear experiences trauma. Both a surgical treatment and hearing aids may be required, depending if it’s more conductive or sensorineural.

Hearing tests are helpful when it comes to this type of hearing loss, as they can determine the severity of the damage. Proper treatment can slow the progression of hearing loss. 

Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder

Hearing loss as a result of Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder occurs when sound enters the ear normally, but the brain cannot process it correctly because of damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve. This can happen due to a genetic mutation or damage to the hair cells in the inner ear. Results for this type may show up normally, but the person may experience difficulty translating spoken words. A hearing aid or cochlear implant can help. Depending on the severity of the condition, a visual form of communication such as sign language may be required. 

Why to see an audiologist in Omaha, NE

Visiting our audiologist in Omaha, NE can help you understand the type of hearing loss you may be experiencing. We can give you an accurate hearing evaluation, show you different treatment plans, and give you quality hearing aids, if needed. We want to see you succeed and have a bright future.

Your quality of life can improve in all ways when you take care of your hearing health. If you or someone you love is experiencing any symptoms, come to our audiologist in Omaha, NE. Contact us today to schedule a hearing consultation.