RAYUDU ENT HOSPITAL

Conductive: This type of hearing loss occurs due to problems in the ear canal, eardrum, or middle ear, preventing effective transmission of sound waves to the inner ear. Common causes include:
- Malformed ear structures.
- Fluid buildup in the middle ear.
- Ear infections and allergies.
- Otosclerosis (abnormal bone growth in the middle ear).
Sensorineural: This type results from issues in the inner ear. It occurs when the inner ear cannot convert sounds into electrical signals for the brain. Common causes include:
- Long-term exposure to loud noises.
- Age-related changes or genetic factors.
- Head trauma or tumors affecting the ear.
- Viral infections or other diseases.
Mixed: A combination of both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. It is typically assessed in an audiology lab and classified as mild, moderate, or severe depending on the severity of the condition.

A sensation that people are speaking unclearly or mumbling.
Frequently needing others to repeat themselves.
Increasing the volume of the TV or speaking at a higher volume than normal.
Experiencing ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ear (tinnitus).
For children, symptoms may include delayed speech or language development, difficulty locating the source of sounds, learning difficulties, or a lack of reaction to loud sounds.

If hearing loss is caused by otosclerosis (abnormal bone growth in the middle ear), treatment options include hearing aids or a surgical procedure known as stapedotomy.
In children with serous otitis media (fluid in the middle ear), treatment may involve improving ventilation of the middle ear to clear infections, or in severe cases, a surgical procedure called myringotomy with grommet placement. In adults, sinusitis, adenoiditis, or nasal masses may contribute to fluid buildup.
Sudden hearing loss can occur due to trauma, viral infections, poor blood circulation, tumors, or medication side effects. If sudden hearing loss occurs, consult an ENT specialist immediately.
If earwax is causing a blockage, avoid using earbuds or other objects to remove it, as they may push the wax deeper, worsening the condition.
To help prevent ear infections in children, consider the following precautions:
- Avoid smoking around children.
- Breastfeeding provides higher immunity compared to bottle-feeding.
- Always feed babies in a sitting position. Lying them down during feeding may cause milk to enter the middle ear, leading to infections.
- Stay vigilant for potential allergies.

Hearing Loss