Hearing impairment (hearing loss)
Hearing impairment (hearing loss) is a partial or complete reduction in the ability to detect or understand sounds. It may affect one or both ears and can range from mild to profound in severity. Hearing loss occurs when there is a problem in the outer, middle, or inner ear, or in the auditory pathways that transmit sound signals to the brain. It is one of the most common sensory disorders worldwide and can significantly affect communication, education, employment, and quality of life.
Hearing loss is generally classified into three main types: conductive hearing loss, which results from problems in the outer or middle ear; sensorineural hearing loss, caused by damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve; and mixed hearing loss, which combines features of both. Common causes include aging, excessive noise exposure, infections, genetic factors, ototoxic medications, and traumatic injuries.
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