What distinguishes conductive hearing loss from sensorineural hearing loss?

Conductive hearing loss is characterized by issues affecting the outer or middle ear, which impede sound transmission to the inner ear. This type of hearing loss can result from factors such as ear infections, fluid buildup, earwax blockage, or structural abnormalities. These challenges prevent sound waves from reaching the inner ear effectively, thereby leading to a reduction in the loudness of sounds a person can hear.

In contrast, sensorineural hearing loss occurs due to problems in the inner ear or the auditory nerve pathways, which can arise from damage to the hair cells in the cochlea or the nerve structures that transmit sound signals to the brain. Understanding this distinction helps in identifying appropriate treatments and interventions for each type of hearing loss, as they originate from different physiological issues.