What characterizes conductive hearing loss?

Conductive hearing loss is characterized by a reduction in hearing that occurs due to a problem in the outer or middle ear. This type of hearing loss typically arises from conditions such as ear infections, fluid in the middle ear, perforated eardrum, or blockages in the ear canal. These issues prevent sound waves from effectively reaching the inner ear, where sound is converted into nerve signals for the brain.

In contrast, the outer and middle ear may still be functioning normally in conductive hearing loss; thus, normal hearing is not a characteristic in this context. Additionally, conductive hearing loss can often be temporary and may be treated or resolved with medical intervention, unlike issues arising from the inner ear which typically indicate sensorineural hearing loss. Lastly, conductive hearing loss is not always permanent; many cases can be treated effectively, leading to the restoration of normal hearing.