Beverly Hills Hearing Center was founded in 1983 by Bonnie Baehr. Prior to that, Dr. Baehr practiced at the House Ear Clinic in Los Angeles as a staff audiologist for seven years. She was involved with diagnostic testing, hearing aid evaluations, research and rehabilitation. Dr. Baehr did her clinical fellowship training at the Veterans Administration Outpatient Clinic in downtown Los Angeles. She is a member of the American Academy of Audiology, American Speech Language and Hearing Association, California Academy of Audiology and Academy of Doctors of Audiology.
Latest posts by Bonnie L. Baehr, Au.D. (see all)
- Types of Hearing Loss - February 26, 2025
- Signs Your Hearing Aids Need Professional Repair - February 15, 2025
- Managing Ear Infections with Hearing Aids - February 7, 2025
Understanding the types of hearing loss is an important step in recognizing and addressing the issue. Each type comes with its own causes, symptoms, and potential treatments, highlighting the importance of regular hearing health exams to maintain auditory well-being.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type and occurs when there is damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve. This type often results from aging, prolonged exposure to loud noise, or genetic factors. It typically presents as difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments. Unlike other forms, this type is usually permanent because the delicate hair cells in the cochlea cannot regenerate. Hearing aids or cochlear implants often play a critical role in improving auditory experiences for those affected.
Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss involves an issue in the outer or middle ear that prevents sound from being efficiently transmitted to the inner ear. Common causes include ear infections, a buildup of earwax, or damage to the eardrum. Unlike sensorineural loss, conductive hearing loss is often temporary and treatable through medical intervention or minor procedures. For instance, removing an earwax blockage or treating an infection can restore hearing. Regular hearing health exams can detect these issues early, preventing complications.
Mixed Hearing Loss
Mixed hearing loss combines elements of both sensorineural and conductive types. This dual impact can result from a combination of factors, such as age-related inner ear damage alongside a middle ear condition like fluid buildup. Treatment for mixed hearing loss often involves addressing the conductive component first, such as resolving an infection, followed by managing the sensorineural aspect with hearing aids or other technologies. Early detection remains a key part of successful intervention.
Unilateral Hearing Loss
When hearing loss occurs in one ear but not the other, it is classified as unilateral hearing loss. This type can stem from various causes, such as infections, trauma, or tumors. Individuals with unilateral hearing loss often find it challenging to locate sounds or maintain balance in noisy settings. Solutions like bone-anchored hearing aids or specialized devices that reroute sound to the better ear can significantly enhance auditory clarity.
Auditory Processing Disorders
Auditory processing disorders are less about hearing sounds and more about how the brain interprets them. While hearing might seem normal in a quiet setting, individuals with this condition struggle to process speech, especially in environments with competing noises. Causes are often linked to developmental issues or trauma. Strategies such as auditory training and assistive listening devices can help manage the condition.
Sudden Hearing Loss
Sudden hearing loss is considered a medical emergency. This condition may affect one or both ears and is frequently accompanied by a feeling of fullness or ringing in the ears. Causes range from viral infections to trauma or even autoimmune disorders. Prompt medical attention can make a significant difference in recovery, underscoring the importance of swift action when symptoms appear.
The Importance of Regular Hearing Health Exams
Regardless of the type, addressing hearing loss begins with a proper diagnosis. Regular hearing health exams are pivotal in identifying changes early and ensuring timely intervention. These evaluations measure hearing ability and provide insights into potential underlying causes. Early detection often means better outcomes, whether the solution is medical treatment, assistive technology, or preventive measures.