Hearing loss affects people of all ages and can significantly impact daily life. There are two main types of hearing loss: sensorineural hearing loss and conductive hearing loss. Some individuals may experience both types simultaneously. (1)



In this article, we'll focus on conductive hearing loss and cover everything you need to know about it.


What Is Conductive Hearing Loss?

Conductive hearing loss occurs when there is a problem transmitting sound from the outer or middle ear to the inner ear. One of the most common causes is an ear infection, which we’ll discuss later in the article.


To understand this better: normally, sound travels through the outer ear canal to the middle ear and then to the inner ear where the cochlea (responsible for hearing) is located. There, sound waves are converted into nerve signals that are sent to the brain. Any disruption in this pathway—especially in the outer or middle ear—can interfere with this process, resulting in conductive hearing loss. (2)


What’s the Difference Between Conductive and Sensorineural Hearing Loss?

  • In conductive hearing loss, the issue lies in the outer or middle ear, and it is often treatable if the underlying cause can be addressed.
  • In contrast, sensorineural hearing loss (the more common type) involves damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve, and is typically permanent. Patients usually require hearing aids or cochlear implants. This type of hearing loss can result from aging, prolonged exposure to loud noise (e.g., factory work), certain medications, or conditions like Meniere’s disease. (1)


Common Causes of Conductive Hearing Loss

  • Earwax buildup
  • Fluid accumulation due to colds or allergies
  • Ear infections (e.g., middle ear or outer ear infections)
  • Eardrum perforation
  • Foreign objects in the ear canal (especially in young children)
  • Blocked Eustachian tube (connects the middle ear to the back of the nose)
  • Tumors or growths in the outer or middle ear
  • Otosclerosis (abnormal stiffening of the middle ear bones)
  • Congenital ear deformities


Symptoms of Conductive Hearing Loss

Symptoms may appear suddenly or develop gradually and can affect one or both ears. Common signs include:


  • Difficulty hearing soft or quiet sounds (patients may increase TV or phone volume)
  • Muffled perception of loud sounds
  • Feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear
  • Fluid discharge or ear drainage
  • Ear pain


How Is Conductive Hearing Loss Diagnosed?

Diagnosis starts with a patient history and physical examination. The main test used is a hearing test (audiogram), which measures the softest sounds a person can hear and determines how well the ear detects different sound frequencies.


The audiogram also compares air conduction and bone conduction. If bone conduction is normal but air conduction is impaired, this usually indicates conductive hearing loss.




Additional tests may be required to identify the specific cause and rule out other conditions.



How Is Conductive Hearing Loss Treated?

Most cases are treatable, and hearing can be restored with medication or surgery, depending on the cause.

  • For example:


  • Ear infections are treated with antibiotics.
  • Earwax is cleared with dissolving drops.
  • Eardrum perforations, tumors, or structural issues may require surgery.


  • If the damage is permanent and cannot be corrected, options include:
  • Hearing aids
  • Bone conduction implants


One of the most common long-term solutions is a bone conduction implant—a small device implanted behind the ear that picks up sound and transmits it directly to the skull bone. This bypasses the outer and middle ear and sends sound straight to the inner ear, allowing the auditory nerve to deliver it to the brain. (4)


In Summary

Treatment for conductive hearing loss depends on its cause, and your doctor is the best person to guide you toward the right solution. If you suspect hearing loss, consult a specialist to examine your ear, determine the cause, and recommend the appropriate treatment.




Worried About Your Hearing?

If you think you may have conductive hearing loss, book an appointment with the Hearing and Balance Unit at Al-Ahli Hospital today. Our experienced audiologists will diagnose the underlying cause and provide the care you need.





References: