Conductive Hearing Loss - This type of hearing loss is when there is some sort of interference that disrupts the motion of sound from the ear drum to the ossicles (a set of 3 small bones used for hearing in the ear) in the middle ear. The obstruction can be a small deformation inside the ear, a foreign object, a problem with fluids in the ear, or just an infection. Not only can this type of deafness is helped by a hearing aid, but can be fixed but it can also be fixed through surgery if the hearing loss is noticed early. The hearing loss in this situation is not always permanent.

Sensorineural Hearing Loss – This is much more severe than conductive hearing loss. When there is damage to the nerves of the inner ear or even to the brain this causes a much heavier hearing loss and makes it difficult to hear many low-decibel (i.e. low volume) sounds. Unlike the Conductive loss hearing, this cannot be corrected with any form of surgery. The only option is to get a hearing aid to help adjust to the hearing loss or have a cochlear implant.

Unilateral Hearing Loss – This is a hearing loss in only one ear. This can result from conductive or sensorineural hearing loss. A hearing aid will help balance the hearing in both ears.

Mixed Hearing Loss – In some cases, people suffer from several forms of hearing loss at once (usually conductive and sensorineural loss). Usually, this can be corrected with hearing aids.

The two primary causes of hearing loss have very different mechanisms and effects. Fortunately, technology is on our side — with the help of hearing aids, these problems can be alleviated so that anyone with a hearing loss can still go about their daily lives. Through understanding different types of deafness, we can continue to progress in how we treat hearing loss..