Can My Hearing Loss Be Cured?

The ability for hearing loss to be cured depends on several factors, including what type of hearing loss you have. Each type of hearing loss can happen for different reasons and affects individuals differently. Learn about the different types of hearing loss and the treatment options that are available.

Conductive hearing loss happens when there is an issue with the middle or the outer ear, creating a barrier to sound waves that otherwise would travel to the inner ear for processing. This type of hearing loss is usually caused by a problem with the physical structure of the middle or outer ear. Conductive hearing loss can commonly cause impacted ear wax, the buildup of fluid in the middle ear, ruptured ear drums, and others. Some types of conductive hearing loss are reversible, but even if the loss is permanent there are several treatment options available. 

Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type of hearing loss to impact otherwise healthy adults. It can be caused by damage to the inner ear, most often the snail-shaped organ called the cochlea and associated structures, or the neural pathways that deliver information to the brain from the ears. Sensorineural hearing loss can be genetic or acquired, meaning it comes about for a reason other than your genetics. It can be present at birth, but it is more likely to develop over time. Age-related hearing loss is the most common type of this category of hearing loss, but it can occur due to several different factors. These include exposure to overly loud noises, head trauma, and numerous medical conditions among others. Sensorineural hearing is most often irreversible and permanent, but it is highly treatable.

Hearing loss that is the result of both sensorineural hearing loss and conductive hearing loss is known as mixed hearing loss. That means there is both damage to the outer or middle ear’s ability to conduct sound waves towards the inner ear and the inner ear or auditory nerve’s ability to process sound data. Depending on the underlying causes of mixed hearing loss, it is possible that some portions of the hearing loss can be medically treated and reversed while others are likely to persist.

The causes and types of hearing loss many and varied. If you or a loved one have been experiencing the symptoms of hearing loss it is important to get an examination from a hearing specialist as soon as possible. Our hearing specialists will be able to determine the type of hearing loss you are experiencing and explore your best treatment options. While several different types of hearing loss are permanent and irreversible, there are still several interventions available that may lessen the severity of your symptoms. 

Treatment for sensorineural, conductive, and mixed hearing loss can vary greatly. Dependent on the type of hearing loss you are experiencing, the underlying causes, and the severity of the loss, there are several treatment options available. An Amplifon hearing specialist will be able to discuss the benefits and potential drawbacks of your options and help guide you to the right hearing solution for you.

• Earwax Removal: Some conductive hearing loss is caused by a buildup of ear wax that disrupts your ability to channel sound towards the inner ear. This type of hearing loss is usually reversible with a simple procedure to remove the blockage.
• Surgical Procedures: Some types of hearing loss can be treated through surgical intervention, like abnormalities of the ear drum or the small bones in your ear. Your hearing specialist will be able to tell you if your hearing loss is treatable with a surgical procedure.
• Hearing aids: One of the most popular forms of treatment for hearing loss is the use of hearing aids. Hearing aids are pieces of medical equipment that are atoned to address your unique form of hearing loss. After a detailed hearing exam, a Miracle-Ear hearing specialist will work with you to precisely configure your hearing aid to meet your needs. 
• Implants: If you experience severe hearing loss and would have only a limited gain from conventional hearing aids, there are implant options that may be appropriate for you. These implants bypass damaged parts of the ear to conduct sound more directly to the nerves responsible for transporting sound information to our brains.

While many types of hearing loss are, unfortunately, permanent and irreversible, there are still many different treatment options available. Hearing aids and other interventions can greatly improve the amount of hearing you experience and improve your overall quality of life.  Find an Amplifon clinic near you.