Types of Hearing Loss: Causes, Types & Treatments

Hearing Loss Is More Common Than You Think

Over 1.5 billion people in the world experience some degree of hearing loss and projections suggest nearly 2.5 billion by 2050. In the UK alone, nearly 18 million people have some form of hearing loss, this is about 1 in 3 adults in the UK.

While hearing loss symptoms generally affects those of a more advanced age, research is now showing young people to also be affected with some form of hearing loss. This can often be due to factors such as noise-induced hearing loss, ear infections and trauma.

If you’re having trouble with your hearing and would like some advice on the most appropriate hearing loss treatment for you, get in touch with our expert team today.

Different Types Of Hearing Loss

Before considering hearing loss treatment it is important to find out which type of hearing loss you have. There are 3 primary areas of you ear and 3 primary categories of hearing loss.

Hearing loss caused by an outer or middle ear issue is called a conductive hearing loss whereas damage to the inner ear is called sensorineural hearing loss. If both occur together, the condition is known as a mixed hearing loss.

Hearing Loss – Outer ear

Build up of wax and infections in the auditory canal can lead to problems occurring in the outer ear, however these can be addressed by your GP or an ENT consultant.

Please contact our specialist ENT consultants if you have any concerns regarding outer ear infections. More details can be located on 150harleyst.co.uk.

Hearing Loss – Middle Ear

Conductive Hearing loss occurs when the transmission of sound waves are blocked from reaching the cochlear in the inner ear.

Conductive hearing loss often results from mechanical obstructions, or structural abnormalities which can cause: –

  • A reduction in the volume of sounds coming through
  • Fullness or pressure sensation
  • Autophany – your own voice sounding unusually loud or different
  • Ear pain, fluid or even dizziness

Some of the common middle ear conditions include : –

Blockages can lead to issues like infections or temporary conductive hearing loss, often treatable with drops, oil or removal methods like microsuction.

Fluid build up behind the eardrum, causing muffled hearing, fullness, popping or ringing.

Otosclerosis is a condition caused by abnormal bone growth in the middle ear that leads to gradual hearing loss. It primarily affects the stapes (stirrup bone), one of the three tiny bones responsible for transmitting sound vibrations to the inner ear.

Cholesteatoma is an abnormal build up of dead skin cells in the middle ear. This occurs usually as a result of chronic ear infections. Without treatment it can grow and destroy delicate ear structures, leading to hearing loss, dizziness and infection.

Medication and surgery can be effective in addressing most middle ear conditions. Hearing aids can also be used to help manage permanent hearing losses when it comes to some conductive losses.

Hearing loss – Inner Ear

Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type of permanent hearing impairment in adults. It occurs when the delicate hair cells in the cochlea (inner ear) or the nerve pathways to the brain become damaged.

This type of hearing loss often makes it harder to understand speech in noisy environments. Sounds can seem muffled, and high-pitched tones — like birdsong, doorbells, or certain voices, may become harder to hear.

  • Ageing – The most common cause, due to natural wear and tear on the tiny cilia in the inner ear
  • Noise exposure – From ongoing loud noise or a single sudden acoustic trauma
  • Medical conditions – Such as Ménière’s disease or diabetes
  • Sudden hearing loss – Often linked to viral infections, vascular problems, or autoimmune issues
  • Ototoxicity – Side effects of certain medications, including some antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, or high-dose aspirin

While sensorineural hearing loss usually can’t be reversed medically, it can often be successfully managed with modern hearing aids — helping restore clarity and confidence in everyday conversations.

Ready to Take the First Step?

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Book your initial assessment today and begin your journey towards better understanding and managing your hearing.