Hearing loss can be due to various problems. Dr. Hazenfield can help determine what type of hearing loss a patient has and whether it can be corrected. Conductive hearing loss occurs with cerumen, or wax, in the external canal, a perforation or hole in the ear drum, negative pressure in the middle ear due to the Eustachian tube not functioning well, fluid in the ears, or problems with the small bones. In the above diagram, conductive hearing loss occurs in the ear canal, ear drum, or middle ear. In this case, tests may be required to be certain that a tumor is not present and to determine if there might be other associated problems.
Treatment is usually with a hearing aid and occasionally with surgery.
Mixed hearing loss, or a combination of the conductive and sensorineural types, sometimes occurs and may require various treatment modalities. Children frequently develop a chronic collection of fluid behind their ear drums, which prevents them from hearing normally and makes them develop ear infections more frequently. A small tube is then inserted through the ear drum so that air can go from the outside to the inside, preventing fluid build-up and hopefully preventing frequent infections. The child usually hears normally as soon as the operation is completed. Dr. Hazenfield allows most children to swim while the tubes are in place.