Conductive Hearing Loss

Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound cannot travel efficiently through the outer ear or middle ear to reach the inner ear. The inner ear itself is typically functioning normally. Causes include earwax blockage, fluid in the middle ear, a perforated eardrum, abnormal bone growth in the middle ear (otosclerosis), or a structural malformation of the outer or middle ear.

Conductive hearing loss often makes sounds seem muffled or quieter, as though the ears are plugged. It can be temporary or permanent, depending on the underlying cause. Many cases are medically or surgically treatable. Earwax removal can restore hearing immediately. Ear tubes can resolve fluid buildup in children. When medical treatment is not sufficient or appropriate, hearing aids or bone conduction devices may be recommended.

Conductive hearing loss is one of three main types, alongside sensorineural and mixed hearing loss. An audiogram comparing air and bone conduction thresholds identifies the conductive component.