Many of us take for granted being able to communicate with others around us. If you have hearing loss, it can be hard to understand what’s going on around you. It can be even harder to converse with friends and loved ones. Getting treatment all starts with understanding of the type of hearing loss you have.
The Different Types of Hearing Loss
There are three main types of hearing loss: sensorineural, conductive, and mixed. Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type of hearing loss out there. It’s a result of damage to the auditory nerve or inner ear. You can’t reverse this type of hearing loss. Its most common causes are aging, loud noise, and disease.
Conductive hearing loss is the result of damage to the middle or outer ear. Most who have this type of hearing loss can reverse it with appropriate treatment. There are some common causes of conductive hearing loss. These include bone abnormalities, damage to the eardrum, and a blockage to the ear, such as pus or earwax.
Mixed hearing impairment is the last type of hearing impairment. This is where both sensorineural and conductive hearing loss are present in the ears. This means that there is damage to the middle or outer ear and the inner ear or auditory nerve. While you can reverse some parts of mixed hearing loss, others aren’t. You must manage this with the right treatment options.
Can You Reverse Hearing Loss?
In most cases of conductive hearing loss, the patient can reverse it. Most procedures by hearing care professionals are non-invasive. These include cleaning out the ear or removing a blockage stuck in it. In most cases, a patient cannot reverse sensorineural hearing impairment. Mixed hearing problems can be somewhat treated. But, like sensorineural hearing impairment, you cannot ever completely cure it.
What Treatment Options Are Available?
When patients experience sensorineural hearing loss, they are unable to reverse its symptoms. But, there are some helpful treatments out there that can reduce your lack of hearing. One of the best is hearing aids. These are non-invasive options that you can adjust to meet your specific needs. Cochlear implants are another great option for certain types of patients. These are best for those who are experiencing sensorineural hearing loss.
It’s not uncommon for patients to have tinnitus or a ringing sound in the ear alongside hearing loss. Like sensorineural hearing impairment, there is no direct cure for this issue. You can manage this problem with sound therapy treatments. This uses various noises to help distract the brain from the ringing sound in the ears.
Call Us Today
If you’re struggling with hearing impairment, then it’s time to contact us. Let our helpful hearing care professionals help you today. We can provide you with the right treatment for your individual needs.
