Hearing loss can be categorized based on the affected part of the ear and its nature. If the problem lies in the sound conduction pathway—the outer or middle ear—it is called Conductive Hearing Loss. If the issue is in the sound perception and analysis pathway, which includes the inner ear, auditory nerve, or auditory brain centers, it is termed Sensorineural Hearing Loss. When both pathways are affected, it is referred to as Mixed Hearing Loss.

1. Conductive Hearing Loss

This type occurs when sound waves are blocked or weakened as they travel through the outer or middle ear before reaching the inner ear. Common causes include:

• Outer ear issues: inflammation, foreign objects, earwax blockage, tumors, cholesteatoma, or congenital malformations.

• Middle ear issues: infections, eardrum perforation due to injury, or disruption of the ossicular chain.

Conductive hearing loss is often easier to diagnose and treat. Treatment may involve surgical procedures to restore hearing. For those who prefer non-surgical options, hearing aids can be an effective solution.

2. Sensorineural Hearing Loss

This type results from damage to the inner ear (e.g., hair cells, blood supply, or spiral ganglion), auditory nerve, or brain centers responsible for processing sound. Common causes include:

• Medications(e.g., certain antibiotics, pain relievers, or chemotherapy drugs)

• Sudden hearing loss

• Genetic factors

• Age-related hearing loss

• Congenital conditions

• Noise exposure

• Head trauma

• Infections(viral or bacterial)

• Autoimmune inner ear disease

Diagnosis involves a thorough review of medical history, physical examination, hearing tests, and sometimes imaging or lab tests. While there is no cure to fully restore hearing in most cases, early intervention—such as hearing aids, cochlear implants, or auditory training—can significantly improve communication and quality of life.

3. Mixed Hearing Loss

This occurs when both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss are present. It can result from a single condition affecting both the middle and inner ear (e.g., advanced otosclerosis or chronic ear infections spreading to the inner ear) or from separate issues (e.g., age-related hearing loss combined with a middle ear infection). Treatment depends on the underlying causes and may involve addressing both middle and inner ear problems separately.

Understanding the type of hearing loss is essential for determining the most appropriate treatment and management plan.