Temporary – as the name suggests, this is a hearing loss which will generally go away within a couple of hours.  Many temporary hearing losses are as a result of loud noise exposure, such as standing by the speakers at a gig.  Have you ever had ringing in your ears after exposure to loud sounds?  This is a common sign.  WARNING – although temporary, continued exposure to loud noise can result in damaging your hearing.  Always wear hearing protection to preserve your hearing when in loud environments.

Permanent – unlike temporary hearing loss, a permanent hearing loss cannot be reversed.  This usually means damage has been caused to the auditory nerves.  Treatment typically requires the use of hearing aids.

Conductive – a conductive hearing loss is a condition of the outer or middle ear and this type of loss occurs when sounds cannot be carried to the inner ear.  Often temporary, this type of loss can often be resolved and possible causes include a buildup of wax, fluid in the middle ear or a perforated ear drum.

Sensorineural – the most common type of hearing loss, caused often as a result of ageing.  This occurs when the inner ear and/or hearing nerve is damaged failing to transmit signals to the brain. Other causes include virus, prolonged exposure to loud noises or poor blood circulation.  This type of loss is often permanent and will typically require the use of hearing aids.

Mixed – sometimes hearing loss can be a mix of both conductive and sensorineural.

To find out if you are suffering with hearing loss, speak to one of our hearing professional today, simply book online or call 0800 740 8706