Deafness (cont.)

Medical Author:
Medical Editor:

What are the types of hearing loss?

Hearing loss can also be classified based on which portions of the hearing system (auditory system) are affected. When the nervous system is affected, it is referred to as sensorineural hearing loss. When the portions of the ear that are responsible for transmitting the sound to the nerves are affected, it is referred to as conductive hearing loss.

Conditions affecting the cochlea, eighth cranial nerve, spinal cord, or brain cause sensorineural hearing loss. Examples include:

Conditions that affect the ear canal, eardrum (tympanic membrane), and middle ear lead to conductive hearing loss. Examples of conductive hearing loss include:

Anatomy of the Ear
Reviewed by Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD on 4/19/2012

Patient Comments

Viewers share their comments

Hearing Loss - Symptoms Question: What symptoms have you experienced with your hearing loss?
Hearing Loss - Treatment Question: What treatment have you received for your hearing loss?

Get the latest health and medical information delivered direct to your inbox FREE!