Did you know that there are different types of hearing loss? Let’s take a closer look at conductive and sensorineural hearing loss and discuss the differences between them.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss Overview 
Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is the most common type of hearing loss. It occurs when there is damage to the hair cells of the inner ear, or in some cases, to the auditory nerve. The most common causes of SNHL are aging and exposure to loud noise. However, other causes include:
- Genetics
- Certain medications
- Medical conditions that affect blood flow to the inner ear (such as heart disease)
- Injury
- Viral infections
- Some autoimmune conditions
Unfortunately, this type of hearing loss cannot be reversed with medication or surgery. However, treatment options like hearing aids can greatly improve your hearing and make it easier to understand speech and other sounds in any environment.
What About Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss?
While most sensorineural hearing loss comes on gradually, sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) occurs very suddenly, either all at once or over the course of a few days. It also can potentially be reversed through prompt treatment. However, the longer you wait, the more likely it becomes permanent.
Conductive Hearing Loss Overview
Conductive hearing loss occurs when a blockage in the outer or middle ear prevents sound waves from getting to the inner ear. This blockage can be caused by many different factors, which include:
- Earwax buildup or compaction
- Ear infection
- A foreign object stuck in the ear
- Eardrum injury
- A bone abnormality within the ear
- A deformed or narrow ear canal
Treatment for conductive hearing loss depends on what’s causing it. For example, if hearing loss is caused by an ear infection or earwax buildup, medication or earwax removal can help fix the problem and restore your hearing back to normal. Other causes may require surgical interventions and, in some cases, may not be able to be reversed.
If conductive hearing loss can’t be reversed, hearing aids and bone-anchored auditory implants can help.
Conductive and Sensorineural Hearing Loss Sound Different
Because they have different causes, it’s not surprising that they can also sound different to those who experience them.
According to the National Library of Medicine, “the main difference between the two kinds of hearing loss, apart from the pathophysiological features, is that patients with conductive hearing loss perceive the sounds diminished, while SNHL patients may perceive the sounds diminished and distorted.”
What To Do if You Notice Changes in Your Hearing?
If you notice changes in your hearing, whether at work, at home or while chatting with the barista at Big City Coffee and Café, schedule an appointment for a hearing test as soon as possible. This can determine the cause and severity of your hearing loss and help your audiologist decide on the appropriate treatment method.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our hearing specialists, call Southwest Idaho ENT today.