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Types of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss affects people in different ways, depending on which part of the ear is affected. The three main types are conductive, sensorineural, and mixed hearing loss — each with its own causes and treatment options.

Understanding the type of hearing loss you have is an important first step toward finding the right support and technology to improve your hearing.

At Sussex Audiology Centre, our expert team can assess your hearing and identify the type and level of loss, helping you choose the most effective solution for your individual needs.

What Are the Types of Hearing Loss?

There are three main types of hearing loss, each affecting a different part of the ear. Understanding which type you have helps determine the most suitable treatment or hearing solution.

  • Conductive hearing loss: Caused by problems in the outer or middle ear, such as earwax, infections, or fluid build-up. Often temporary and treatable.
  • Sensorineural hearing loss: The most common type, resulting from damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve. Usually permanent but manageable with hearing aids.
  • Mixed hearing loss: A combination of conductive and sensorineural loss, meaning issues in both the outer/middle ear and the inner ear.

Our expert audiologists can identify your type of hearing loss through a professional hearing assessment and recommend the most effective next steps.

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Types of Hearing Loss
Understanding Types of Hearing Loss

Understanding Each Type

Each type of hearing loss affects how sound is transmitted or processed within the ear. Identifying which type you have is essential to finding the right treatment or hearing solution.

Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when the inner ear or auditory nerve is damaged. It’s often linked to ageing, noise exposure, or certain medical conditions. While permanent, it can usually be managed effectively with modern hearing aids.

Conductive hearing loss happens when sound can’t travel efficiently through the outer or middle ear. Common causes include earwax, fluid, or infection. In many cases, this type is temporary and treatable.

Mixed hearing loss combines both conductive and sensorineural elements, meaning issues exist in multiple parts of the ear. Treatment varies depending on the underlying causes.

At Sussex Audiology Centre, we carry out comprehensive hearing assessments to identify the exact type of loss and recommend tailored solutions for your needs.

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Understanding Hearing Loss

How We Can Help

At Sussex Audiology Centre, we provide expert support for all types of hearing loss — from mild changes in hearing to more complex conditions. Our friendly audiologists carry out detailed hearing assessments to identify the cause and type of loss, allowing us to tailor a solution that suits you best.

We offer advanced hearing aid technology, ear wax removal, tinnitus support, and ongoing aftercare to help you hear clearly and confidently. Whatever the cause or type of hearing loss, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

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Get in touch with us

If you’re concerned about changes in your hearing or would like to understand more about the type of hearing loss you may have, our friendly team is here to help. Use the contact form below or call us directly to arrange a hearing assessment or ask any questions.

Sussex Audiology Clinic

Our Clinics

At Sussex Audiology Centre, our clinics are equipped with advanced diagnostic technology to accurately assess all types of hearing loss. We use ENT-grade wall-mounted microscopes and high-quality microsuction systems to ensure precision, comfort, and safety during every procedure.

Each appointment includes a detailed consultation, HD video otoscopy, and a complimentary hearing test to help us identify the exact type and degree of hearing loss you may have.

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I had a same day appointment yesterday at your Haywards Heath Centre.
I wanted to simply let you know that the staff, the centre and the whole experience and outcome were absolutely superb.
Your staff are a credit and the appointment was a huge success.
I have worked in health care for over 30 years and it is not always the case that things run smoothly and efficiently – this is certainly not the case with your organisation.
Simply thank you for sorting my problem out in a most professional way.
Please pass this on to your HR / patient relations staff.

Mark Whitaker, Haywards Heath

“I’d like to start by thanking Rosanne for her expertise and service over the
years – the best hearing aids in the world are nothing without an expert
audiologist on hand to manage them.
December ‘24, I decided to upgrade my aids to Phonak Audéo I90-Sphere,
and the experience has been both amazing and quite emotional.
I am now able hear speech far more clearly, even in very noisy situations, as
never before – the “Spheric” program is unbelievably good. Birdsong is a joy,
and I can enjoy my music again but crucially, I am far more enthusiastic
about attending social occasions, family gatherings, meetings, the cinema
etc.
I’ve had them six months now and I’m still absolutely delighted. Many
thanks to Rosanne and Sussex Audiology Centre.”

Roy Groom

Patient Review

“I was nervous about getting a hearing test, but the audiologists made me feel at ease. The results were explained clearly, and I felt well cared for.”

David L, Crawley

Google Review

“The team at Sussex Audiology Centre was incredibly professional and friendly. My at-home hearing test was convenient and thorough. Highly recommended!”

Sarah M, Crawley

Google Review

“Lovely and friendly. Helped me amazingly remove my wax buildup comfortably. And offered to clean my other ear free of charge as it was only ever so slightly blocked. Highly recommend visiting here for your ear troubles.”

Scott Pullen

Google Review

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