Hearing loss is classified by:
Type: where the breakdown in hearing is happening
The ear has 3 parts, the outer ear, the middle ear and the inner ear. Hearing loss can be caused by problems in any three of these areas.
Conductive hearing loss is caused by problems in the outer or middle ear, which includes the ear canal, eardrum and a tiny air filled cavity that contains the three smallest bones in the body. This type of hearing loss can be due to problems with how the ear is formed, ear infections or wax buildup. This type of hearing loss can be treated or can be permanent.
Mixed Hearing loss: is a mixture between hearing loss caused in the outer/middle ear, conductive hearing loss, and the inner ear, sensorineural hearing loss.
Sensorineural hearing loss means the problem is in the inner part of the ear. The inner part of the ear is where the cochlea, the hearing organ, and the auditory nerve are housed. The inner ear receives, organizes and transfers sound to the brain. This type of hearing loss is permanent.
Degree: how severe the hearing loss is
This is determined by hearing tests that look at how your child hears different frequencies.
This can range from mild to profound.
Learn more about what to do after your child has been diagnosed with hearing loss.
Location: whether its bilateral (on both sides) or unilateral (only on one side)
Here’s a short video that simulates how one hears with one side vs. both sides.
Need help explaining your single-sided deafness?