What Is Conductive Hearing Loss

Despite its size, the ear has many different parts. Each one has a role of its own. They all contribute to our ability to perceive sound. We divide hearing loss into types. It is dependent on the part of the ear that has issues.

A sensorineural hearing loss is the most common. Damage in the inner ear causes this. This is usually permanent. The parts within this area of the ear are very delicate. Next would be conductive hearing loss. This means the there is damage to the outer and middle ear.

What Causes This?

Earwax is a natural substance created to lubricate the ear canal. It keeps out foreign objects and organisms like ants and other tiny insects. Earwax may also work against us. It can harden and accumulate to a certain amount in an area inside the passageway. This blocks sounds from entering.

This often happens when people clean their ears using swabs and pins. This push back the substance until it becomes an obstruction. Those who produce high amounts of earwax are especially susceptible to it.

Ear Infections

Infections may also happen which may cause inflammation. This can occur when the ears become too moist. This is a circumstance that allows for the growth of bacteria. Swimmer’s ear is one of the types of this condition. Water can become trapped inside the ear. Children are prone to this due to their narrow ear canals.

Avoid activities where your ears are under water for a long time. If you have to do this, then you should wear protection that keep water out. These aren’t expensive, so you have little to no excuses for not doing so.

These infections may also result in damaged ossicles of the middle ear. These are three tiny bones that amplify sounds and pass them further inside. Trauma that is hard enough could also harm these bones.

Eardrum Retractions

Eardrum retractions happen when the pressure in the middle ear has changed. This causes the pressure to go further in the ear. For you to get a better picture, it is a thin sheet of stretched skin. You may think of it like a drum, which vibrates when it picks up noise.

Like a drum, a hole on it would mean you are at a disadvantage. A pierced eardrum is from trauma or infection.

Treatments for these can vary from medications to surgeries, which may cost a lot. We recommend that you always take caution when it comes to your hearing health.

How Chicago Beltone Can Help

For accurate recommendations, have your ears assessed by a licensed audiologist. Our clinic offers warm service and professionalism. Call Chicago Beltone at (888) 485-5452 to schedule a check-up.