Conduction Deafness

Conduction Deafness

Conduction Deafness is hearing loss due to sound waves not reaching the sensing mechanism within the ear. This can result from damage to the ear canal and/or tiny ear bones that conduct sounds, or blockage from earwax, infectious material, or a tumor.

For example, the worried parents of a 3 year old felt that he was progressively not paying attention when they talked to him. They felt he was ignoring them or purposely misbehaving, but a complete physical exam revealed the presence of a benign tumor that almost completely blocked his right ear canal. Conduction Deafness can be reversed and hearing restored once the blockage is removed or the injury treated.