What is Conductive Hearing Loss?
A conductive hearing loss occurs when there is a problem with the one or more of the parts of the outer or middle ear that conduct sound into the inner ear. The ear canal, ear drum, and the tiny bones in the middle ear make up the conductive system. A conductive hearing loss can often be partially or completely reversed with surgical or medical treatment.
Potential Causes:
- Abnormal formation of the outer or middle ear structures
- A middle ear infection
- Abnormal bone growth in the middle ear
- A hole in the eardrum
- Poor Eustachian tube function
Treatment Options:
Treatment for conductive hearing loss varies based on the cause. Medications are usually prescribed for ear infections, whereas surgery is usually an option for abnormal outer or middle ear structures and other physical problems. Hearing aids are can be the best answer when surgery is not an option.
