TYPES OF HEARING LOSS

Hearing loss can be categorized in three ways:

1. Conductive Hearing Loss
   (medically treatable conditions)
   With a conductive hearing loss, the inner ear functions normally. However, an abnormality of the outer or middle ear hinders sound from reaching the inner ear. Conductive hearing losses are mild-to-moderate in degree and are usually temporary and treatable.
   
   You can simulate a conductive hearing loss by plugging your ears with your fingers. Sounds from the outside are softer while your own voice actually sounds louder than normal.
   
   
2. Sensorineural Hearing Loss (treatable with modern technology)
   This hearing loss occurs in the inner ear. Tiny hair cells which detect sound may not be working properly or have become damaged. Sometimes, the auditory nerve may not be transmitting the sounds correctly. This prevents nerve impulses from reaching the brain and therefore, the individual with sensorineural hearing loss will not hear completely.
   
   This type of hearing loss can often benefit from hearing aids.
   
   
3. Mixed Hearing Loss
   Sometimes a combination of factors occurs which affects both the middle ear and the inner ear, resulting in a mixed hearing loss.

>> Degrees of Hearing Loss

Degrees of Hearing Loss

The table below offers a guide to identifying associated degrees of hearing loss, decibel levels (unit to measure sound) and examples to demonstrate the nature of these volumes. The examples offer an approximate guide only. Your hearing professional can offer more detailed information about the degree of your hearing loss.