There are different types of hearing loss. Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves are unable to reach the inner ear because sounds are blocked or muffled. The problem can be located in the ear drum, the ear canal (the outer ear) or in the tiny bones in the ear.
Common Causes of Conductive Hearing Loss
- Earwax stuck in your ear canal
- Perforated eardrum
- Fluid buildup in the middle ear due to colds or allergies
- Ear infection
- Benign tumors
- Malformation of the middle ear bones
- Problems with your Eustachian tube that connects your middle ear and nose
- Foreign object in the ear
Symptoms of Conductive Hearing Loss
Besides the obvious symptom of muffled sounds,conductive hearing loss can make you feel as if your ears are clogged. Certain sounds may actually be exaggerated for you – such as eating crunchy foods. Dr.Michael Riesberg at Riesberg Institute is an Ear Nose & Throat specialist in the Pensacola area who can treat conductive hearing loss with antibiotic or antifungal medication or surgery.
A different type of hearing loss,sensorineural, involves a problem with the inner ear. It is possible to have a combination of both conditions. While sensorineural hearing loss cannot be corrected with medication or surgery, hearing aids can significantly improve your quality of life.
At least 70% of people live with hearing loss every day. This condition can affect your ability to communicate with co-workers and loved ones. If you or a loved one are experiencing any level of hearing loss in Pensacola, FL, contact Riesberg Institute by calling (850)476-0700 or visiting our website. You deserve to hear everything around you!