Conductive Hearing Loss: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
It's no surprise that statistics from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) show that as we get older, hearing loss becomes more common. In fact, the NIDCD reveals that 55% of people aged 75 and older have disabling hearing loss.
One type of hearing impairment that affects many older adults is conductive hearing loss. Simply put, this condition occurs when sound can't effectively reach the inner ear.
In this post, we'll explore the causes and symptoms of conductive hearing loss. We'll also explore hearing loss remedies that support better auditory health and can improve seniors' quality of life.
Understanding Conductive Hearing Loss
According to WebMD, conductive hearing loss is a common condition caused by an obstruction in the middle or outer ear. The obstruction prevents sound waves from making their way through to the inner ear, resulting in poor hearing.
The good news is that, unlike sensorineural hearing loss which impacts the auditory nerve, conductive hearing loss may respond to hearing loss remedies. In some cases, it may even be possible to reverse the condition.
The Impact of Conductive Hearing Loss
For some seniors, conductive hearing loss only causes mild symptoms. For example, it may be difficult to hear soft sounds, while most other sounds are audible.
However, for some seniors, it results in severe hearing loss. Sounds may be:
- Muffled
- Distorted
- Blocked
Common Causes of Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss can have many causes, so do not quickly conclude that your hearing loss is permanent! An auditory specialist can examine your ears and carry out hearing tests to get to the bottom of the problem.
The following are common problems that can cause conductive hearing loss.
Earwax Buildup
We all need earwax to protect our ear canals. However, when too much builds up in the ear, we can experience hearing loss.
According to Cedars Sinai, seniors are more likely to develop problems with ear wax blockages as they get older. Some reasons include:
- Harder and less mobile earwax
- Excessive earwax production
- Difficulties in removing earwax
- Infections
- Autoimmune diseases
- Skin diseases
You may have heard the old adage: don't put anything smaller than your elbow in your ear. But many people still rely on Q-tips to clean their ears. This can also cause earwax to become impacted and blocked.
The good news is that earwax blockages can be treated, and your hearing may return to normal.
Fluid in the Middle Ear
Allergies, colds, and sinus infections can cause fluid to build up in the inner ear. This can prevent sound waves from reaching the inner ear, causing conductive hearing loss.
Otosclerosis
Otosclerosis is an abnormal bone growth in the middle ear. This creates a blockage, resulting in hearing loss.
Perforated Ear Drum
A hole or tear in the ear drum can cause conductive hearing loss. This can be caused by:
- Trauma
- Loud noises
- Infections
Mass in the Middle Ear
As we age, benign tumors can develop in the inner ear or ear canal. They can block the sound from getting through to the inner ear and gradually cause hearing loss.
Treatments for Conductive Hearing Loss
The good news is that there are many effective treatments for conductive hearing loss, depending on its cause.
Earwax Removal
If your doctor finds that earwax buildup is the cause of your hearing loss, they can safely remove it. Doctors use specialized tools or ear irrigation devices to gently remove earwax buildup.
You may be tempted to try faster and cheaper home remedies. However, using Q-tips or other objects could make the problem worse and cause further damage to your hearing. So, rather than making middle ear issues worse, let medical professionals remove the earwax and provide advice on maintaining auditory health.
Medications for Infections
If an ear or sinus infection is affecting your hearing, the following medications may help:
- Antibiotics
- Decongestants
- Antihistamines
They can reduce inflammation and address the underlying cause to help you gradually regain your hearing.
Surgical Procedures
A small surgical procedure may be required if your conductive hearing loss is caused by one of the following:
- Perforated eardrum
- Damage to the tiny bones in the middle ear
- Fluid in the middle ear
Your doctor can talk you through the right ear blockage solutions for your particular condition. The end result of better hearing is well worth any temporary discomfort caused by the procedure.
Hearing Aids
Some causes of conductive hearing loss cannot be corrected with medical interventions. If this applies to you, hearing aids could help you regain a good level of hearing.
Hearing aids that work by amplifying sound waves may not be suitable for people with conductive hearing loss. However, bone-conduction hearing aids work differently. They transfer sound through bone vibrations rather than amplification, which is more effective for people with this type of hearing loss.
How Assisted Living Communities Support Seniors with Conductive Hearing Loss
Without appropriate treatment and support, any form of hearing loss can make the world a more scary place. At an assisted living community, you'll be part of a vibrant set of people who are intent on getting the best out of life. Both residents and staff form a supportive network that takes your hearing loss into account and helps you to thrive.
The staff can arrange regular visits to a hearing specialist to ensure your hearing loss is managed effectively. Activities and events take hearing loss into account, meaning your condition never means you miss out on a great social life!
Make Addington Place of Clinton Your Assisted Living Destination
Conductive hearing loss can make life more challenging. However, the right treatment and hearing aids can help improve auditory health and give seniors a better quality of life.
At Addington Place of Clinton, we are focused on ensuring our residents enjoy life to the full. While there are no on-site medical resources, we ensure our residents access regular check-ups, including excellent auditory care.
Why not visit us to discover how fulfilling life in an assisted living community can be? Contact us today to schedule a free tour.