Understanding the different types of hearing loss is crucial for seeking the appropriate treatment and improving your quality of life. At Horan & Fevold Hearing Clinic in Wenatchee, our team is dedicated to helping you navigate your hearing health journey with personalized care and expertise.
Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves are unable to reach the inner ear. This type of hearing loss can result from various factors, including ear infections, fluid buildup, earwax blockages, or damage to the ear canal or middle ear structures. Symptoms often include muffled hearing, difficulty hearing soft sounds, and a feeling of fullness in the ear.
Treatment for conductive hearing loss typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may include medications for infections, procedures to remove earwax or fluid, or surgical interventions to repair structural issues. Our hearing doctors in Wenatchee are skilled in diagnosing and treating conductive hearing loss to restore your hearing.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type of hearing loss, resulting from damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve. Causes can include aging, exposure to loud noises, certain medications, and genetic factors. Symptoms often include difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments, and a perception that people are mumbling.
While sensorineural hearing loss is usually permanent, it can be managed effectively with hearing aids. At Horan & Fevold Hearing Clinic, we offer a range of advanced hearing aids in Wenatchee to help you hear more clearly and participate fully in conversations. Our hearing evaluation process ensures that we select the best device for your needs.
Mixed Hearing Loss
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. This means that both the outer or middle ear and the inner ear are affected. Causes can include a combination of ear infections, aging, and noise exposure. Symptoms vary depending on the extent of each type of hearing loss but may include a mix of conductive and sensorineural symptoms.
Treatment for mixed hearing loss involves addressing the conductive component first, such as removing blockages or treating infections, and then managing the sensorineural component with hearing aids. Our hearing test in Wenatchee can help determine the type and extent of your hearing loss, allowing us to create a tailored treatment plan.
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) affects the brain’s ability to process sounds. This type of hearing issue is not due to problems with the ears themselves but rather how the brain interprets sound signals. People with APD often have normal hearing ability but struggle with understanding speech, especially in noisy environments.
APD is typically diagnosed through specialized hearing tests. Treatment may include auditory training, speech therapy, and using assistive listening devices. Our audiologists in Wenatchee are experienced in diagnosing and managing APD to improve your auditory processing skills.
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
Noise-induced hearing loss results from exposure to loud noises, either from a single intense event or prolonged exposure to noisy environments. Common sources include industrial work settings, loud music, and recreational activities like shooting or motorcycling. Symptoms can include ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds.
Prevention is key to avoiding noise-induced hearing loss. We recommend using ear protection in noisy environments and limiting exposure to loud sounds. If you suspect you have noise-induced hearing loss, our hearing evaluation in Wenatchee can assess the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate hearing aids or other interventions.
Sudden Hearing Loss
Sudden hearing loss is a rapid loss of hearing that occurs within a short period, often within 72 hours. Causes can include viral infections, trauma, autoimmune diseases, or vascular issues. Sudden hearing loss is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.
Treatment may involve medications, such as corticosteroids, to reduce inflammation and improve hearing recovery. Our hearing doctors in Wenatchee are equipped to provide urgent care and follow-up treatment for sudden hearing loss.
Why Choose Horan & Fevold Hearing Clinic in Wenatchee?
At Horan & Fevold Hearing Clinic, we are committed to providing comprehensive hearing care. Our services include thorough hearing tests in Wenatchee to accurately diagnose your hearing loss type and severity. We offer a wide range of hearing aids in Wenatchee, tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle. Our team of experienced audiologists is dedicated to helping you achieve better hearing and improved quality of life.
If you suspect you have hearing loss or need a hearing evaluation in Wenatchee, contact Horan & Fevold Hearing Clinic today. Our expert audiologists are here to help you every step of the way, from diagnosis to treatment and ongoing support.
Schedule Your Hearing Evaluation Today
Horan & Fevold Hearing Clinic offers extensive hearing tests for Wenatchee and Moses Lake residents, and expert guidance on hearing loss management. Our audiologists are committed to providing personalized care and support on your hearing health journey.
If you have any concerns about your hearing, Horan & Fevold Hearing Clinic is here for you. Schedule your initial hearing test, or consult with a hearing aid specialist today.