Conductive Hearing Loss

A conductive hearing loss occurs when the transmission of sound from the outer to the inner ear is disrupted. This can be caused as a result of damage to the ear or congestion such as the build up of fluid, as in the case of 'glue ear'. Damage to the ear could be permanent, or, as with 'glue ear', temporary, where an infection causes fluid to build up in the middle ear cavity.

 

Glue ear can cause difficulties for children when learning their letters and sounds as they struggle to hear sounds clearly. If glue ear persists for some time and fails to clear, it is often necessary to see an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT) or audiologist whereby in some cases grommets are fitted to help drain off the fluid causing the congestion.

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Conductive hearing loss, whereby sounds appear much quieter, can be treated or alleviated with medicine, surgery or hearing aids. However, despite hearing aids being useful in amplifying sounds, it is important to note that background noises are also amplified which means environments need to be adapted to take account of this. As parents and carers, it is necessary to be aware of the need to limit background music and noise as these sounds are all amplified by your child's hearing aids.

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