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What is Mixed Hearing Loss?
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When Conductive and Sensorineural Hearing Loss Happen Together
Mixed hearing loss occurs in people who simultaneously experience conductive hearing loss and sensorineural hearing loss in the same ear. People who have mixed hearing loss experience problems in the outer or middle ear (conductive) as well as in the inner ear or auditory nerve (sensorineural). The term combined-type hearing loss describes this condition, which results in more severe hearing difficulties than isolated types of hearing loss.
Most cases begin with an existing hearing loss, which develops into another type of hearing impairment. The dual impact of mixed hearing loss on different sections of the auditory system requires a combined medical approach for treatment.
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"Denver Audiology (aka Bunny) is my hearing loss medical provider for the last 7 years. I did not know how degraded my hearing was until Bunny took the time to explain the hearing loss as well as the effects on brain function. Bunny and the staff are courteous, professional, kind, caring, and best of all knowledgeable. Very reasonable pricing for state of the art hearing aids. Your one stop for the BEST hearing loss care is Denver Audiology."
- Kevin J.
“Bunny at Denver Audiology took great care in making sure I understood the options for dealing with my hearing loss, and selecting the best solution given my needs and lifestyle. Whenever follow-up is necessary, getting an appointment is quick and easy. Highly recommended.
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— Adam P.
“Denver Audiology helped me find the right solution for my hearing needs. Their follow-up care is fast and reliable. Highly recommended.”
— Adam P.
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— Wil S.
A Combination of Inner and Outer Ear Problems
What Causes Mixed Hearing Loss?
The factors that lead to mixed hearing loss differ extensively. A person who already has sensorineural hearing loss from aging or medical issues or noise exposure may develop conductive hearing loss from separate conditions, such as middle ear infections or fluid accumulation.
Unattended conductive hearing problems that persist over time can sometimes result in inner ear damage. A comprehensive medical evaluation and hearing assessment will reveal the nature of the issue, regardless of its origin.
Possible Causes Include:
An existing sensorineural hearing loss can worsen when a middle ear infection occurs.
A head injury that damages multiple areas of the ear.
The combination of age-related hearing loss with earwax accumulation and middle ear fluid.
Otosclerosis in the middle ear creates abnormal bone growth, which causes inner ear damage.
The inner ear becomes affected when conductive issues remain untreated for a prolonged period.
How is Mixed Hearing Loss Treated?
Medical treatment for mixed hearing loss depends on the combination of both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss types, along with their individual severity levels. Doctors will either provide antibiotics for infections or perform surgical procedures to address middle ear problems. These treatments fail to address the aspect of sensorineural hearing loss.
The sensorineural component responds best to hearing aids as the primary treatment option. The user can receive personalized programming to enhance their hearing capabilities across various environments. Your hearing care provider will evaluate your hearing condition to recommend either an advanced hearing device or an implant when the condition is severe.
The most effective solution for people with mixed hearing loss involves treating their medical problem simultaneously with hearing technology devices.
Combining Medical Treatment with Hearing Technology
We treat mixed hearing loss with a combination of medical solutions and advanced hearing technology to help you hear more clearly.
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Get the right diagnosis and care plan. A licensed professional must perform a complete hearing exam because mixed hearing loss consists of multiple problems. Denver Audiology will guide you through the hearing challenge assessment and develop the best treatment plan, which may include medication, surgery, hearing aids, and their combination.
Mixed hearing loss should not stop you from experiencing the fullness of the world. Our team will assist you in achieving better hearing from the start.
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