Conductive Hearing Loss

Inner ear damage and treatment options

Usually blockages, disease and damage to the ear canal cause conductive hearing loss. This form of hearing loss can impact a person of any age - and can begin in the womb. Sometimes children have ear infections with effusions (a collection of sticky fluid in the middle ear), which can result in hearing loss. We can assess your ears, and advise you on what is hindering your ability to hear.

Conductive hearing loss may be temporary, and can be reversed with treatment unlike the more common sensorineural loss. Yet, if your bone structure in the ear is deformed or damaged, or if you have ruptured your eardrum, you may need to consider other options for otosclerosis (fixation of the hearing bones) and reconstructive procedures.

The most common treatment options are:

• Hearing aids (not applicable in all situations).
• Surgery to repair damage to the eardrum or middle ear, if present.
• Time may help in less severe cases or those caused by major change in pressure, such as during a flight. This is called barotrauma or aero-otitis media, and generally resolves itself, restoring hearing.
• Tympanoplasty is a medical intervention that can restore hearing to a perforated – or ruptured – eardrum.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please do not hesitate to call (877) 323-8968 to book an appointment with our audiological team.