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WHAT IS HEARING LOSS?
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In normal hearing, sound waves travel into the ear and cause the eardrum to vibrate. The vibration helps trigger nerves that send sound information to the brain. The brain then translates these waves into sound that a person can interprets and understand.
Hearing loss occurs when there are problems in the structural part of the ear, the nerves within the ear, or the section of the brain that controls hearing. There are three primary types of hearing loss:
- Conductive – Conductive hearing loss is the result of blocked sound transmission in the ear. It most often occurs in infants and toddlers due to infections or fluid in the ear. This type of hearing loss is typically mild, temporary, and highly treatable.
- Sensorineurual – Sensorineurual hearing loss is the result of structural problems in the ear and/or with nerves that control hearing. It can be congenital (present at birth) or occur later in life. Sensorineurual hearing loss is often permanent. It ranges from mild (“hard of hearing” some sounds) to profound (inability to hear any sound).
- Mixed – Mixed hearing loss is a hybrid of conductive and sensorineurual hearing loss.
The Warren Center offers a range of therapy services for children with audio impairment. These may include speech therapists, individual specialists, and support groups. For more information, contact us.
MORE INFORMATION
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