Here at ION Hearing, we strive to bring you the wonderful world of auditory sensations. No matter the reason for your hearing loss, we offer a variety of assistive listening devices to find the perfect tool to enhance your quality of life. Hearing loss can result from an array of factors. However, the specific type of hearing loss people are afflicted with is based on which part of their auditory system is damaged. There are three categories into which hearing loss can be classified: Sensorineural, conductive, or mixed hearing loss.

Sensorineural Hearing Loss

SNHL results from damage to the nerve pathways between the ear and brain or damage to the inner ear.ASHA.org states that this is the most common type of hearing loss (about 90 percent!). Typically, inner ear and nerve damage cannot be fixed with surgery or medication. This is the reason so many people needhearing aids for everyday living. The causes of hearing loss are numerous. Many reputable sources blame factors such as:

• Loud noises
• Genetics
• Advanced aging
• Sickness i.e. viruses and diseases
• Head injuries
• Certain drugs/medications

No matter the cause of SNHL, the results can be life-hampering. We strive to provide hearing enhancement to those with inner ear damage!

Conductive Hearing Loss

CHS happens when sound cannot be relayed properly from the outer ear to the eardrum. Generally, this type of hearing loss can be repaired with medicine or surgery. Causes of CHS include:

• Ear infections
• Allergies
• Fluids (including Swimmer’s Ear)
• Earwax obstruction

People who suffer from conductive hearing loss often notice a general reduction in sound levels in the world around them. This condition is less common and often less permanent.

Mixed Hearing Loss

In some cases, the previous two types of hearing loss occur simultaneously. MHS means that there is damage to both the outer ear and inner ear or nerves. With two different types of damage resulting from different reasons, people with mixed hearing loss have a harder time correcting their hearing. Typically, a combination of hearing aids and medications can be utilized to maximize your hearing capabilities.