{"id":73,"date":"2022-04-28T05:01:00","date_gmt":"2022-04-28T05:01:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/?p=73"},"modified":"2023-05-06T12:48:03","modified_gmt":"2023-05-06T12:48:03","slug":"conductive-hearing-loss-audiogram","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/conductive-hearing-loss-audiogram\/","title":{"rendered":"Unraveling the Mystery of Conductive Hearing Loss with Audiograms"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Unraveling the Mystery of Conductive Hearing Loss with Audiograms<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Hearing loss is a common problem affecting people of all ages. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, aging, exposure to loud noises, infections, and certain medications. Hearing loss can be categorized into two types: conductive <a href=\"https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/reverse-slope-and-low-frequency-hearing-loss\/\">hearing loss<\/a> and sensorineural hearing loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves cannot reach the inner ear due to blockages or damage in the outer or middle ear. Audiograms are a common diagnostic tool used to identify and measure the severity of conductive hearing loss. In this blog post, we will unravel the mystery of conductive hearing loss and explain how audiograms can help diagnose and treat this condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is Conductive Hearing Loss?<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignright size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/depths-of-conduction-deafness-1024x652.jpg\" alt=\"conductive-hearing-loss-audiogram\" class=\"wp-image-4774\" width=\"357\" height=\"226\" srcset=\"https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/depths-of-conduction-deafness-1024x652.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/depths-of-conduction-deafness-300x191.jpg 300w, https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/depths-of-conduction-deafness-768x489.jpg 768w, https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/depths-of-conduction-deafness-1536x978.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/depths-of-conduction-deafness-860x548.jpg 860w, https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/depths-of-conduction-deafness.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 357px) 100vw, 357px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Conductive hearing loss occurs when there is a problem with the transmission of sound waves from the outer ear to the inner ear. This can be caused by several factors, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Earwax buildup<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ear infections<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Allergies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fluid buildup in the middle ear<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Damaged eardrum<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Abnormal bone growth in the middle ear<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In some cases, conductive hearing loss can be temporary and can be resolved with medical treatment. However, in some cases, it can be permanent and require hearing aids or surgery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How is Conductive Hearing Loss Diagnosed?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Conductive hearing loss is a type of hearing loss that occurs when sound is blocked from passing through the outer or middle ear, making it difficult to hear sounds clearly. It can be caused by a variety of factors such as ear infections, blockages in the ear canal, and damage to the middle ear bones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The audiogram test for conductive hearing loss involves two types of assessments: pure-tone audiometry and bone conduction testing. During pure-tone audiometry, the audiologist presents pure tones of different frequencies and intensities to the patient through earphones. The patient is then asked to indicate when they hear the sounds. This test helps to determine the softest sounds the patient can hear at different frequencies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bone conduction testing involves placing a bone vibrator behind the ear and sending vibrations directly to the inner ear. This test bypasses the outer and middle ear and assesses the patient's inner ear function. The results of both tests are then plotted on an audiogram to give a complete picture of the patient's hearing ability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to audiometry and bone conduction testing, an audiologist may also use other diagnostic tools such as tympanometry and acoustic reflex testing to further evaluate the patient's conductive hearing loss. Tympanometry measures the movement of the eardrum in response to changes in air pressure, while acoustic reflex testing measures the reflexive contraction of the middle ear muscles in response to loud sounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Overall, an audiogram is a crucial diagnostic tool for identifying conductive hearing loss and determining the best course of treatment. It is important to consult with a qualified audiologist or hearing healthcare professional if you suspect you have hearing loss, as early intervention can help improve outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Understanding an Audiogram<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/depths-of-conduction-deafness-459860261-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"conductive-hearing-loss-audiogram\" class=\"wp-image-4775\" width=\"304\" height=\"304\" srcset=\"https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/depths-of-conduction-deafness-459860261-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/depths-of-conduction-deafness-459860261-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/depths-of-conduction-deafness-459860261-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/depths-of-conduction-deafness-459860261-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/depths-of-conduction-deafness-459860261-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/depths-of-conduction-deafness-459860261-860x860.jpg 860w, https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/depths-of-conduction-deafness-459860261.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 304px) 100vw, 304px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>An audiogram is a graph that shows a person's hearing ability at different frequencies and volumes. The graph has two axes, with the frequency measured in hertz (Hz) on the horizontal axis and the volume measured in decibels (dB) on the vertical axis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The audiogram is divided into different frequency ranges, with the lowest frequencies on the left side of the graph and the highest frequencies on the right side of the graph. The volume ranges from softest sounds at the top of the graph to the loudest sounds at the bottom of the graph.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A person with normal hearing would have an audiogram that shows a straight line across the top of the graph, indicating that they can hear all frequencies at soft volumes. However, a person with conductive hearing loss would have an audiogram that shows a dip or notch in the graph at certain frequencies. The depth of the dip indicates the severity of the hearing loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Interpreting an Audiogram<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To interpret an audiogram, it is important to understand the different frequency ranges and what they correspond to in terms of everyday sounds. The following table provides an overview of the frequency ranges and the corresponding sounds:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th>Frequency Range<\/th><th>Corresponding Sounds<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>125-250 Hz<\/td><td>Low-pitched sounds such as thunder or a bass guitar<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>500-1000 Hz<\/td><td>Mid-range sounds such as a conversation or a doorbell<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2000-4000 Hz<\/td><td>High-pitched sounds such as a bird chirping or a fire alarm<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>8000 Hz<\/td><td>Very high-pitched sounds such as a whistle or a cymbal<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The severity of conductive hearing loss can be determined by the depth of the dip in the audiogram. A mild hearing loss would be indicated by a dip of 20-40 dB, a moderate hearing loss by a dip of 41-55 dB, a severe hearing loss by a dip of 56-70 dB, and a profound hearing loss by a dip of 71 dB or greater.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is important to note that an audiogram only measures hearing ability at different frequencies and volumes. It does not provide information about the cause of the hearing loss. Further testing, such as a physical examination or imaging tests, may be necessary to determine the underlying cause of conductive hearing loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Treatment for Conductive Hearing Loss<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Conductive hearing loss is a condition that can have various underlying causes, which means that the treatment options can vary depending on the specific case. If the hearing loss is temporary, the doctor may recommend medication or surgery to address the root cause. In the case of an ear infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to clear the infection and restore the patient's hearing. Additionally, if the hearing loss is caused by an accumulation of earwax, a doctor may remove the earwax to restore hearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, if the conductive hearing loss is permanent, it may require long-term management. Hearing aids and other assistive devices are often recommended to improve hearing in these cases. Hearing aids can come in various styles, from behind-the-ear devices to in-ear models, and they work by amplifying sound waves and directing them into the ear canal to improve the clarity of speech and sounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In more severe cases, surgical interventions may be necessary to address the underlying cause of the conductive hearing loss. For example, a damaged eardrum may require surgery to repair and restore hearing. Surgical interventions may also include the insertion of a middle ear implant, which can replace the function of damaged middle ear bones to improve hearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is important to note that the treatment for conductive hearing loss is highly individualized and may require consultation with an audiologist or an ear, nose, and throat specialist. A comprehensive evaluation will be necessary to determine the best treatment plan for the patient's specific condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Conductive hearing loss can be a frustrating and debilitating condition, but it is treatable with the right diagnosis and treatment plan. Audiograms are an important diagnostic tool that can help identify the severity and type of hearing loss. By understanding the results of an audiogram and the corresponding treatment options, people with conductive hearing loss can take steps to improve their quality of life and maintain their independence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sources<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>&#8220;Conductive Hearing Loss: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments.&#8221; WebMD, 22 June 2021, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.webmd.com\/healthy-aging\/conductive-hearing-loss-causes-symptoms-treatments\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">www.webmd.com\/healthy-aging\/conductive-hearing-loss-causes-symptoms-treatments<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;Conductive Hearing Loss.&#8221; American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.asha.org\/public\/hearing\/Conductive-Hearing-Loss\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">www.asha.org\/public\/hearing\/Conductive-Hearing-Loss\/<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Unraveling the Mystery of Conductive Hearing Loss with Audiograms Hearing loss is a common problem affecting people of all ages. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, aging, exposure to loud noises, infections, and certain medications. Hearing loss can be categorized into two types: conductive hearing loss and sensorineural hearing loss. [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":282,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[110,112,7],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/73"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=73"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/73\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4778,"href":"https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/73\/revisions\/4778"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/282"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=73"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=73"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/baxterhearing.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=73"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}