Hearing Loss

Hearing problems can affect anyone, and at any point during a person’s life. It affects different people to varying degrees and for different reasons, and can be triggered by any number of environmental and biological factors. At Hear More Associates of Lexington, it is our commitment to help you learn and understand the types of hearing loss and how we could help you find solutions to these hearing problems.

Because the loss typically develops gradually, you may not notice the loss of subtle everyday sounds such as a ticking clock or a rustling newspaper. Before you realize it, you are missing sounds critical to effective communication.

Living with untreated loss means difficulties in conversations with loved ones, at social gatherings, and work settings. Untreated, hearing problem makes it challenging to keep up with everyday life. Treatment can lead to a better quality of life by improving personal relationships, reducing anger and frustration, and providing better control of one’s life.

Types of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is generally categorized by location—that is, what part of the ear is damaged—as well as by severity and age of onset. There are three main types of loss: conductive, sensorineural, and a combination of both, known as mixed hearing loss.

Conductive Hearing Loss

Conductive hearing loss results from sound waves being conducted through the outer and/or middle ear inefficiently. Sound waves are blocked or muffled before they can reach the inner ear, which is still functioning properly. These hearing problems can frequently be treated with medication or surgery. Conductive hearing loss in adults is much less common and much more common in children.

Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Sensorineural hearing loss results from damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or the nerve pathways that transmit sound information to the brain. The normal aging process and exposure to loud noise can lead to sensorineural loss. Generally, sensorineural loss cannot be reversed and is not treatable with surgery or medication – but IT CAN BE SIGNFICANTLY IMPROVED THROUGH THE USE OF HEARING AIDS.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss is generally considered a form of or a sub-category of sensorineural loss. This is one of the most common types of hearing problems, and, fortunately, it is also the most preventable. Onset for these hearing problems are gradual, painless, and frequently undetectable until significant hearing loss has occurred.

Mixed Hearing Loss

Mixed hearing loss is the combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss, which can involve damage in the outer, middle, and inner ear simultaneously.

To learn more about the types of hearing loss and how to help you solve these hearing problems, contact Hear More Associates in Lexington at (781) 863-8282.