Conductive Hearing Loss

Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves are blocked in the outer or middle ear and can't reach the inner ear, where hearing is still normal. People affected by conductive hearing loss often experience an overall reduction in the volume of sounds and find it difficult to hear faint sounds. Most conductive losses are not permanent and can be treated medically or surgically. However, if left untreated, conductive hearing losses can result in permanent impairment.

Causes

Otitis Media	Also called middle ear infection Most common cause of conductive hearing loss among children Middle ear becomes inflamed and filled with fluid preventing the ear drum from vibrating properly. Inflammation can be the result of a virus or respiratory infection. Symptoms include swelling, redness, earaches, irritation, hearing loss, fever and ear drainage. Most cases can be cured by antibiotics. In some cases, the insertion of ventilating tubes, may be required.
Otosclerosis	Otosclerosis is the most common cause of conductive hearing loss in adults. Caused by a build-up of calcium around the stapes (middle ear bone), preventing it from vibrating and sending sound signals to the inner ear. Over 90% of people with otosclerosis can regain normal hearing through surgical treatment.
Other Causes	Temporary blockage (e.g. allergies, outer ear infections such as swimmer's ear, build-up of earwax or fluid due to cold) Perforation of the ear drum Fractured middle ear bone