There are two main types of hearing loss, Conductive and Sensorineural. Conductive hearing loss involves the outer and middle ear cavity. In most cases, hearing loss occurring in these areas can be medically or surgically corrected. A common cause of hearing loss in the middle ear cavity is an ear infection, which results from the build up of fluid which in turn blocks the normal transmission of sound waves. This type of hearing loss is most often successfully treated through medical or surgical intervention. Earwax, or cerumen in the outer ear can in some cases cause a hearing loss until the wax can be safely removed.
The most common type of hearing loss is sensorineual and occurs in the cochlea or along the auditory nerve. Hearing loss occurs when the cilia that line the inside of the cochlea are damaged or destroyed. Damage to the cilia is largely the result of aging, noise exposure, hereditary factors, certain medications, or other diseases. The main treatment option for this type of hearing loss is hearing aids or other assistive listening devices.