Mixed Hearing Loss

Understanding the combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss

What is Mixed Hearing Loss?

Mixed hearing loss occurs when an individual experiences both conductive hearing loss (issues in the outer or middle ear that block sound) and sensorineural hearing loss (damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve). This dual condition can significantly impact overall hearing ability, making conversations and daily communication more challenging.

At EliteListen, we specialize in diagnosing and managing mixed hearing loss with advanced hearing solutions tailored for each patient.

Causes of Mixed Hearing Loss

Infections

Ear infections or untreated middle ear conditions can lead to permanent hearing damage.

Noise Exposure

Prolonged exposure to loud environments damages inner ear cells and worsens hearing loss.

Genetic Factors

Some individuals inherit conditions affecting both conductive and sensorineural pathways.

Ear Injury

Trauma to the ear can disrupt middle ear structures and inner ear nerves simultaneously.

Symptoms of Mixed Hearing Loss

Difficulty hearing both low and high-pitched sounds
Muffled or distorted speech perception
Need to increase TV or phone volume frequently

Trouble understanding conversations in noise
Ear pain, fluid leakage, or history of infections
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

Diagnosis & Audiogram

Mixed hearing loss is diagnosed through a comprehensive hearing test, including an audiogram that measures sound perception at various frequencies. Individuals with mixed loss often show reduced hearing sensitivity across multiple ranges.

Treatment Options

EliteListen offers a combination of medical and technological solutions to manage mixed hearing loss effectively.

Medical Treatment

Surgery, medication, or ear cleaning may improve conductive components of hearing loss.

Hearing Aids

Advanced digital devices amplify sounds, making communication easier in daily life.

Cochlear Implants

For severe cases, implants bypass damaged structures and directly stimulate auditory nerves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mixed hearing loss is not always fully reversible, but with proper treatment and assistive devices, hearing and quality of life can be significantly improved.

Pure hearing loss refers to either conductive or sensorineural impairment alone, while mixed combines both, making diagnosis and treatment more complex.

Get Help at EliteListen

Our audiologists provide personalized care and advanced solutions for mixed hearing loss. Book a consultation today.