The Three Types of Hearing Loss
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type of hearing loss, accounting for 90% of adult hearing problems. Sensorineural hearing loss is commonly related to aging and/or a history of loud noise exposure. Some characteristics include:
Sounds not only diminish in volume, but become distorted
The ability to hear high-pitched sounds is usually affected first
The ability to hear low-pitched sounds, such as vowel sounds, may be normal or relatively well-preserved
Conductive Hearing Loss
A conductive hearing loss is often temporary and can sometimes be corrected with wax removal, medication or surgery. Conductive loss stems from problems in the outer or middle ear and can be caused by:
Ear infection
Build-up of ear wax or fluid
Punctured eardrum
Otosclerosis – an abnormal bone development in the middle ear
Most cases of temporary hearing loss are due to one of the above causes. Allergies, sinus problems and certain medications can also lead to a temporary diminishing of one’s hearing ability.
Mixed Hearing Loss
Causes of Hearing Loss
Does Everyone Lose Their Hearing When They Get Older?
Will Earbuds Damage My Hearing?
Is My Medication Causing Hearing Loss?
How Is Meningitis Related to Hearing Loss?
Online Hearing Assessment
Visit any Beltone Hearing Care Center to discover just how simple it is to improve your hearing.
You can also take our online hearing assessment to get a head start on your free appointment—we’ll forward your results to your local Beltone office. The results will help your hearing care professional begin the process of determining your level of hearing loss and which hearing aids are right for you.
Take the Next Step
Don't wait any longer to begin your journey to better hearing. Beltone is ready to help you hear what matters the most to you.
Schedule a free hearing screening with a Beltone hearing care professional to explore your options.