Types Of Hearing Loss

Conductive hearing loss occurs when the sounds that are carried from the ear drum (tympanic membrane) to the inner ear are blocked. Ear wax in the ear canal, fluid in the middle ear, abnormal bone growth, or a middle ear infection can cause this loss.

Sensorineural (sen-so-ree-NU-ral) hearing loss happens when there is damage to parts of the inner ear or auditory nerve. The degree of hearing loss can vary from person to person. Sensorineural hearing loss may be caused by birth defects, noise exposure, aging, head injury, tumors, illness, certain prescription drugs, poor blood circulation, high blood pressure, or stroke.

One type of sensorineural hearing loss is Presbycusis (prez-bee-KU-sis). Presbycusis is the most common hearing problem in older people. In fact, people over age 50 are likely to lose some hearing each year. Presbycusis is an ongoing loss of hearing linked to changes in the inner ear. People with this kind of hearing loss may have a hard time hearing what others are saying or may be unable to stand loud sounds. The decline is slow. Just as hair turns gray at different rates, presbycusis develops at different rates.

Dr. Baisch will conduct comprehensive testing to determine the type and degree of your hearing loss. If there is a possibility that your hearing may be improved by medical intervention, you will be referred to an appropriate medical professional.