Conductive hearing loss is caused by problems in the outer and middle ear, which can affect the transmission of sound through to the inner ear. The most common causes of conductive hearing loss is wax blockages, infections, fluid, ear drum perforations or damaged / defective ossicles (middle ear bones). Conductive hearing loss can either be temporary / treatable or permanent.
Symptoms of Conductive Hearing Loss
People with conductive hearing loss often report that the overall volume of sound is reduced and that speech and sound in general is faint. Parts of conversations may be missed, requests for repetition are frequent and lip reading and other non-verbal communication cues (facial expression, hand gestures, body language) are relied upon.
Conductive hearing loss can present through a number of different symptoms.
Causes of Conductive Hearing Loss
Physical issues with the ears are some common causes of this condition, including:
- ear infections in the ear canal or middle ear
- fluid in the middle ear
- scarring on the eardrum due to repeated perforations
- calcium plaques on the ear drum
- excessive wax creating a blockage in the ear canal
- tumours or growths in the ear canal or middle ear
- fixated / calcified or dislodged ossicles (middle ear bones)
Treatment of Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss can be temporary / treatable or permanent. For temporary / treatable conditions, clients are encouraged to seek medical advice. When conductive hearing loss is permanent, or a residual hearing loss remains after medical treatment, the hearing loss can be effectively managed with hearing aids and other rehabilitation devices / strategies.
If you suspect a hearing loss for yourself or a loved one, please contact Mackay Hearing to book a comprehensive diagnostic hearing assessment. A hearing assessment will determine if you have hearing loss, the extent and type of hearing loss (sensorineural, conductive or mixed) and treatment options.
If you would like further information or wish to make an appointment, please contact our friendly local staff directly on (07) 4952 4649, email us at listening@mackayhearing.com.au, or leave us a message on our website.