What distinguishes conductive hearing loss from sensory hearing loss?

Conductive hearing loss is characterized by a problem in the outer or middle ear that prevents sound waves from efficiently being conducted to the inner ear. One common cause of conductive hearing loss is cerumen obstruction, which refers to the buildup of earwax that blocks the ear canal and interferes with sound transmission. This type of hearing loss is often reversible with appropriate treatment, such as removal of the blockage.

In contrast, sensory hearing loss, also referred to as sensorineural hearing loss, is associated with dysfunction in the inner ear or the auditory nerve pathways. This could stem from a variety of issues, such as aging, genetic factors, exposure to loud noise, or infections affecting the inner ear. Unlike conductive hearing loss, sensory hearing loss is generally more permanent and involves damage to the hair cells in the cochlea or the auditory nerve itself.

Understanding these distinctions helps in diagnosing hearing impairments accurately and determining the appropriate interventions. Cerumen obstruction specifically illustrates a reversible cause of conductive hearing loss, making it a key distinguishing factor when comparing the two types of hearing loss.