What does mixed hearing loss indicate?

Mixed hearing loss indicates that there are problems affecting both the outer or middle ear, as well as the inner ear. This type of hearing loss demonstrates a combination of conductive and sensorineural components. Conductive hearing loss refers to issues that impact the transmission of sound through the outer ear and middle ear, such as earwax blockage, fluid in the middle ear, or issues with the bones in the ear. Sensorineural hearing loss, on the other hand, is caused by damage to the inner ear structures (the cochlea) or the auditory nerve pathways that carry sound signals to the brain.

In mixed hearing loss, an individual may experience a degree of conductive hearing loss along with an underlying sensorineural deficit. This means that treatment or interventions must address both components to improve overall hearing capability. Understanding this concept is crucial for professionals in the field of audiology and speech-language pathology, as it informs both diagnosis and treatment planning.