Common Types of Hearing Loss

The main types of hearing loss are sensorineural, conductive, and mixed hearing loss. Learning the differences can help you recognize symptoms earlier and avoid delaying care.

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What Are the Types of Hearing Loss?

There are 3 types of hearing loss: sensorineural hearing loss, conductive hearing loss, and mixed hearing loss.

The type of hearing loss is determined by the part of the ear that is affected.

The Most Common Type

Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type of hearing loss. It occurs when there is damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or the hearing nerve that sends sound signals from the ear to the brain.

Sensorineural hearing loss

Sound Wave Roadblocks

Conductive Hearing Loss

Conductive hearing loss happens when sound is obstructed inside the ear canal or in the middle ear. The blockage prevents incoming sounds from properly traveling through the inner ear and down to the cochlea.

Conductive hearing loss

The Combo-Platter

Mixed Hearing Loss

Mixed hearing loss is the combination platter of sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. This means that there is a problem in both the outer or middle ear and the inner ear.

Mixed hearing loss

Understanding the different types of hearing loss can help you recognize changes early and stay connected to the people and moments that matter most.

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Subcategories of Hearing Loss Types

Other Types of Hearing Loss

In addition to the main types of hearing loss, hearing loss can also be classified based on how and where it occurs.

Learn more about bilateral hearing loss, unilateral hearing loss (hearing loss in one ear) and sudden hearing loss below.

When One Ear Is Affected

Unilateral Hearing Loss

When hearing is lacking in one ear, it can have more impact than you think. Learn what causes unilateral hearing loss, how to identify it and the steps you can take to start hearing better.

Unilateral hearing loss

Prompt Hearing Screening Needed

Sudden Hearing Loss

When your hearing loss occurs within a period of 72 hours it is categorized as sudden. It is important to see a doctor immediately as early treatment may improve chances of recovery.

Sudden hearing loss

When Both Ears Have Hearing Loss

Bilateral Hearing Loss

Bilateral hearing loss can occur symmetrically or asymmetrically, affecting both ears. Learn more about the signs of bilateral hearing loss, what causes it and how you can manage your symptoms.

Bilateral hearing loss

Age, noise, wax or medical conditions

What could be the cause of your hearing loss?

There are many different reasons and causes. Sometimes a hearing loss can be as simple as too much earwax or a temporary ear infection. Let's look into the more common causes such as age and noise:

Age-Related Hearing Loss

More often than not, the most common type of hearing loss happens to all of us - aging.
Age-related hearing loss is a form of sensorineural hearing loss that happens as our nerves and hearing ability start to wear down over time.

Age-related hearing loss

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

Too much noise = good vibrations but also bad hearing later down the line. Loud music feels good, but has a hidden cost. Other factors such as noisy work environment, DIY jobs at home with noisy tools can also cause hearing loss.

Noise-induced hearing loss