Conductive deafness.
Deafness caused by inadequate conduction of sound into the inner ear.
Diseases or obstructions in the outer or middle ear cause conductive hearing losses. Specifically, a conductive hearing loss is the impairment of hearing due to a failure of sound pressure waves to reach the cochlea through normal air conduction channels; at the same time, the inner ear is usually normal. Etiology of a conductive hearing loss varies, including the following: (a) foreign body obstruction; (b) bacterial infections of the external ear canal (otitis externa), growths of the bony external canal (osteoma, hyperostosis, exotosis); (c) congenital atresia, middle ear infections (acute, serous, or chronic otitis media); (d) hardening of the middle ear system (otosclerosis); or (e) trauma to the outer or middle ear system that causes a blockage of sound to the inner ear. Sensitivity to sound is diminished, but clarity (interpretation of the sound) is not changed, in a person with a conductive hearing loss. Conductive losses usually affect all frequencies of hearing evenly and do not result in severe losses. A person with a conductive hearing loss usually is able to wear a hearing aid or can be helped medically or surgically. If volume is increased to compensate for the loss, hearing is usually normal.
Type of hearing loss caused by inadequate conduction of sound through the external and middle ear to the inner ear; an increase in volume usually compensates for this defect.
Decreased auditory function caused by a lesion or obstruction of the outer ear
Hearing loss resulting from any condition that prevents sound waves from being transmitted to the auditory receptors. It may result from wax obstructing the external auditory meatus, inflammation of the middle ear, ankylosis of the ear bones, or fixation of the footplate of the stirrup.
There is a specific form of hearing loss that is medically treatable and primarily involves difficulties in the middle or outer ear, impeding the normal transmission of sound to the inner ear. This type of hearing loss is characterized by intact functionality of the inner ear while encountering specific issues in the middle or outer ear that hinder the proper passage of sound waves. Common causes of this condition include obstructions, malformations, infections, or damage to the structures of the middle or outer ear. The presence of such problems disrupts the efficient transfer of sound vibrations to the inner ear, resulting in impaired hearing. Fortunately, medical interventions, such as surgical procedures, hearing aids, or other assistive devices, can often address the underlying problems and restore or improve the individual’s ability to hear sounds effectively. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential in managing this type of hearing loss and enhancing auditory function.