What is condictive deafness?

Conductive deafness results from obstruction or damage to the outer ear canal, the tympanic membrane, the middle ear ossicles, or the eustachian tube. As a result, the transmission of sound waves to the inner ear is impaired.

Causes of conductive deafness include:

1. Cerumen impaction: A buildup of earwax in the ear canal can block sound waves from reaching the eardrum.

2. Foreign body in the ear canal: Objects such as small toys, beads, or insects can become lodged in the ear canal, causing conductive deafness.

3. Otitis externa: Infection of the outer ear can swell the ear canal and block sound waves.

4. Tympanic membrane perforation: A hole in the eardrum can prevent sound waves from being transmitted to the middle ear.

5. Otitis media: Infection of the middle ear can cause fluid to accumulate behind the eardrum, which can interfere with sound transmission.

6. Eustachian tube dysfunction: The eustachian tube is a small canal that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. When the eustachian tube is blocked or dysfunctional, it can cause pressure to build up in the middle ear, which can interfere with sound transmission.

Conductive deafness is usually a temporary condition that can be treated with medical or surgical intervention. In some cases, however, conductive deafness may be permanent.