From Coastal Hearing – Your Independent Audiologist in North Wales
Hearing loss affects people of all ages and can develop gradually or come on suddenly. Understanding the different types of hearing loss is the first step towards effective treatment and better hearing health.
At Coastal Hearing, we offer expert, independent hearing care across North Wales, including Colwyn Bay, Prestatyn, Anglesey and Mold. Here, we explain the three main types of hearing loss and how we can help you manage them.
1. Sensorineural Hearing Loss
What is it?
Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type and occurs when the inner ear (cochlea) or the hearing nerve is damaged. This type of hearing loss is usually permanent.
Causes may include:
- Ageing (presbycusis)
- Noise exposure
- Viral infections
- Head trauma
- Genetic conditions
- Ototoxic medications
Symptoms:
- Difficulty hearing in noisy environments
- Sounds may seem muffled or distorted
- Struggling to hear high-pitched voices or consonants
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
How we help:
Sensorineural hearing loss can often be managed successfully with hearing aids. At Coastal Hearing, we offer a wide range of discreet, advanced hearing technology to suit your lifestyle and needs.
2. Conductive Hearing Loss
What is it?
Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves can’t effectively travel through the outer or middle ear to the inner ear. This can often be temporary and treatable.
Common causes:
- Earwax blockage
- Fluid in the middle ear (from colds or ear infections)
- Perforated eardrum
- Otosclerosis (abnormal bone growth)
- Foreign objects in the ear
Symptoms:
- A feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear
- Sudden or fluctuating hearing loss
- Sounds may seem quieter, but not distorted
- Improved hearing when speaking loudly or in quiet rooms
How we help:
Our team can carry out ear wax removal and refer you for further treatment if needed. For long-term conditions, custom solutions or surgical referrals may be recommended.
3. Mixed Hearing Loss
What is it?
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. It means there’s damage to both the inner ear and the outer/middle ear.
Causes may include:
- Long-standing ear infections combined with age-related hearing loss
- Trauma
- Genetic conditions
Symptoms:
- A combination of the symptoms listed above
- Hearing may worsen over time if not treated
How we help:
Managing mixed hearing loss often requires a multi-step approach, including wax removal, medical treatment, and hearing aids. At Coastal Hearing, we provide tailored care to help you achieve the best hearing outcome.
What Should You Do If You’re Experiencing Hearing Issues?
If you’ve noticed changes in your hearing, such as struggling to follow conversations or needing to turn up the TV, don’t ignore the signs. The earlier hearing loss is identified, the more options you have for treatment and support.
At Coastal Hearing, we offer comprehensive hearing tests and expert advice, so you can move forward with confidence.
Book a Hearing Test in North Wales
Our friendly, independent audiology team supports communities across Colwyn Bay, Prestatyn, Anglesey, and Mold. Whether you’re concerned about hearing loss, earwax, or need help with your current hearing aids, we’re here to help.
👉 Book your hearing check today and take the first step toward better hearing.