En Voz Alta Answers Your Questions about Loss of Hearing
| By
avelazquez
There are different types of hearing loss.
Some loss may be temporary & some are permanent.
Conductive hearing loss due to wax, or ear infections or middle ear fluid may be temporary and treated through medication or surgery.
Conductive hearing loss caused by atresia of the ear canal or abnormal middle ear anatomy is considered permanent. If surgery is an option, that typically isn’t possible until about 5 years of age or more.
Sensorineural hearing loss is considered permanent. It can sometimes be progressive and get worse. It can be in one ear or both and the severity can vary. The more severe it is, the greater the impact on communication development. Hearing aids are often recommended.
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural. Depending on the cause, the loss may improve but is still at least partially permanent.
Auditory Neuropathy involves normal cochlear function and abnormal auditory nerve function. The severity can vary. Responses can improve over time. Treatment may vary from FM systems to cochlear implants.
