Hearing loss is a common health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Yet, many are unaware that it isn’t a single condition with one cause or treatment. There are actually several types of hearing loss, each with its own characteristics, symptoms, and solutions. Recognizing the differences is key to getting the right care and improving your quality of life. Below, we’ll explore the three main categories: conductive, sensorineural, and mixed hearing loss.
Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound can’t move efficiently through the outer or middle ear, preventing it from reaching the inner ear properly. This type of hearing loss often results in muffled or faint sounds, sometimes affecting only one ear. People may also notice a feeling of fullness, pressure, or discomfort.
The causes can vary — from earwax buildup and middle ear infections to fluid behind the eardrum, a perforation, or even abnormal bone growth like otosclerosis. Fortunately, conductive hearing loss is often treatable. Depending on the cause, treatment might involve professional ear cleaning, medication for infection, or surgery to repair structural issues. In some cases, hearing aids can help amplify sounds until hearing returns to normal or improve clarity long term.
Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common and typically permanent type of hearing loss. It occurs when there’s damage to the inner ear (the cochlea) or the auditory nerve, which carries sound signals to the brain. Rather than making things simply quieter, this type of hearing loss often makes sounds less clear, especially speech.
Common causes include aging, long-term exposure to loud noise, head injuries, certain medications, genetic factors, and viral infections like measles or meningitis. People with this condition often struggle to understand speech in noisy settings, may feel that others are mumbling, or experience ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
While sensorineural hearing loss can’t usually be reversed, today’s hearing technology offers effective ways to manage it. Hearing aids can make sounds clearer and more natural, and cochlear implants can help those with severe loss. Assistive devices and auditory training also support communication and confidence in daily life.
Mixed hearing loss is exactly what it sounds like — a combination of conductive and sensorineural loss. This means that problems exist in both the outer or middle ear and the inner ear or nerve pathways. It’s a more complex condition, often caused by ongoing ear infections, trauma, or age-related decline alongside other ear issues.
Symptoms typically include muffled hearing, reduced speech clarity, tinnitus, and difficulty hearing in both quiet and noisy environments. Treatment usually begins by addressing the conductive component, such as removing blockages or treating infections, followed by hearing aids or implants to support the sensorineural aspect. Because each case is unique, audiologists often create a personalized plan to address both components effectively.
The first step in treating hearing loss is understanding which type you have. A comprehensive hearing evaluation performed by an audiologist or hearing specialist can identify the cause and guide you toward the most effective solutions.
If you’ve noticed changes in your hearing, don’t delay getting tested. Early diagnosis can make a big difference in maintaining your ability to connect, communicate, and enjoy life’s sounds.
Contact our office today to schedule a professional hearing assessment and start your journey toward better hearing.
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My name is Kerrie Kirkpatrick I was born in Bismarck, N.D. but raised in central Nebraska. I have a strong history in healthcare from holding an esthetician license, dental assisting certification and a registered nursing license. Curatating creative content from photography to graphics and applying the end result to marketing has always been a passion of mine and lead to the pursuit of social media marketing management.
In my free time I enjoy sharing my passion of the equine industry with my two little girls, ages 3 years and 11 years. I grew up showing western and English riding, recently I have been dabbling in reining, lessoning in working cow and with goal of roping as well. I look forward to promoting the compassionate professionals behind HuskerLand Hearing and educating you on the best options available for your hearing health!
I am a dedicated Hearing Instrument Specialist, committed to helping my patients rediscover the sounds that enrich their lives. With a focus on personalized care and advanced hearing technology, I strive to deliver clarity and confidence in every fitting. Outside of the clinic, I enjoy hiking, spending time with my wife, and playing music— pursuits that reflect my appreciation for the beauty of sound in everyday life.
Hi, my name is Vivienne. I am a creative person who likes art, writing, and fashion. I often draw or sew to express my creativity. I also enjoy spending my free time learning languages, such as Spanish and Mandarin Chinese.
Hello, I’m Corey! I'm recently married and am loving life with my husband and our sweet dog and cat. I’m all about being outdoors, whether it’s hiking, rock climbing, or kayaking somewhere beautiful. I love traveling, finding new adventures, and soaking up as much nature as I can along the way.
I’m the Patient Care Coordinator who keeps our billing and insurance process running. Away from the office, I love reading, butchering Mandarin Chinese, having casual hangouts with friends, and anything to do with giraffes.
Hiya! I’m Maria, a Colorado-transplant who’s happily made the midwest my home. When I’m not behind the front desk chatting away with anyone who will listen, you can find me behind a camera, hanging with my husband and two sons (a German Shepherd and tuxedo cat), or cozying up with a book. My favorite part about my job is being part of a team who helps people feel cared for through hearing care experience, support and kindness.
I was born and raised here in Nebraska. I’m fortunate to work alongside my mother, Darci, as we do what we love. I come from a line of hearing specialists as my grandfather owned his business for over 35 years. Helping people hear runs in our blood. In my free time I love spending time with my husband and our 3 cats. I find joy traveling, reading and spending time with family and friends.
I’ve been in the business of helping people hear for over 35 years, working with my father in his private practice for most of that time. To me, what I do isn’t a job, it’s something that I love. It's a passion that was handed down to me from my father that I now get to share with my daughter. Outside of work I love spending time outside and with my three kids and their spouses.
Hi there! I am Cameron Ellison the owner of Huskerland Hearing Center. My staff and I absolutely cannot wait to get you living a more healthy, more engaged lifestyle through better hearing! We are ready to handle whatever hearing issue you may be experiencing. Please feel free to reach out to me or any of my staff with any questions you may have.
For more of a background on myself and my WHY please click the link below. Helping People Communicate Again