Conductive Hearing Loss

• What does conductive deafness mean?

  It means sound can't pass efficiently through the outer and middle ear into the inner ear.
• What are common causes of conductive deafness?

  Blockages such as wax in the outer ear or fluid in the middle ear.
• What is glue ear?

  It is a very common condition, especially in pre-school children.
• Is conductive deafness usually temporary or permanent?

  It is usually temporary, but can be permanent in some cases.
• What is unilateral deafness?

  Deafness in one ear only.
• What are other terms for unilateral deafness?

  One-sided hearing loss or single-sided deafness (SSD).
• What can cause conductive hearing loss?

  A blockage such as earwax, an infection causing fluid build-up, or a perforated ear drum.
• How can changes in oestrogen levels affect hearing?

  They may contribute to conductive hearing loss in women, especially during pregnancy.
• What role does genetic disposition play in conductive hearing loss?

  It may result in an increased likelihood of conductive hearing loss.
• What are the key characteristics of conductive deafness?

  • Sound cannot pass efficiently through outer and middle ear.
  • Often caused by blockages (e.g., wax, fluid).
  • Common in children (e.g., glue ear).
  • Usually temporary, but can be permanent.
• What are the causes of conductive hearing loss?

  • Blockages (earwax)
  • Infections (fluid build-up)
  • Perforated ear drum
  • Changes in oestrogen levels (especially in women)
  • Genetic disposition