Life Sounds Great: What causes a conductive hearing loss?

Conductive hearing loss is can be caused by any condition that prevents sound from reaching the inner ear. When sound enters the ear it must travel down the ear canal, pass through the eardrum, set the bones in the middle into motion and enter the inner ear. Problems anywhere along this path prior to the inner ear, can cause a conductive hearing loss.

Here are some of the more common causes:

· Ear wax build up

· Fluid behind the eardrum

· Growth in the ear canal or behind the eardrum

· Hole in the eardrum

· Problems with the bones in the middle ear such as otosclerosis

· Swimmer’s ear

Conductive hearing loss is usually temporary in that it is often medically or surgically treatable. Once the underlying cause is remedied, hearing returns completely or at least partially. If there is any remaining hearing loss following treatment, hearing aids can be beneficial.

Conductive hearing loss can be diagnosed through an audiologic assessment (hearing evaluation). This assessment can also reveal the underlying cause. If you think you have a conductive hearing loss, start with an audiologic evaluation. Life Sounds Great! Enjoy Every Moment.

Life sounds great! Enjoy every moment!