A conductive hearing loss is caused by any problem in the outer or middle ear that prevents sound from getting to the inner ear. Conductive hearing losses tend to cause a mild or moderate degree of hearing loss and can sometimes be temporary and fluctuating. Depending on the specific cause of the problem, medication or surgery may improve hearing.
Some of the conditions that cause conductive hearing loss include:
- Malformation of the ear
- Ear infections/fluid
- Tumors
- Otosclerosis
Individuals with a conductive hearing loss may use a hearing aid or an assistive listening device for communication, environmental sounds (traffic, alarms, etc.) or both.