::::::::::::  Diagnosis and Treatment: Hearing Loss

 

Types of Hearing Loss and Causes

A complete audiological evaluation (a hearing test) can determine the type and severity of a hearing loss.

Hearing loss can be classified as one of three types: conductive, sensorineural, or mixed. The classification is based on the location of the problem in the auditory (hearing) system.

A conductive hearing loss is caused by a problem in the outer ear (the ear canal) or the middle ear (the eardrum and three bones behind the eardrum) that prevents sound from reaching the inner ear. Most conductive hearing losses can be treated with medication or surgery. The most common causes of conductive hearing loss are ear infections, otosclerosis, trauma to the eardrum, or excessive cerumen (earwax) in the ear canal.

A sensorineural hearing loss is caused by a problem in the inner ear (the cochlea or the auditory nerve). Most sensorineural hearing losses are permanent but can be helped with hearing aids. The most common causes of sensorineural hearing loss are aging, genetic factors, and exposure to loud noise.

A mixed hearing loss is caused when there is both a conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.


Testing for Hearing Loss and Other Audiology Services

Our offices offer a full range of auditory services, including complete hearing exams, pediatric hearing evaluations and hearing aid services. Our staff consists of licensed audiologists and certified Oto-technicians.

Diagnostic Audiology Services

Other Hearing & Ear Services


Hearing Aid Services and Assisted Listening Devices

Hearing Aid Services

South Texas ENT Consultants offers extensive hearing aid evaluation and fitting services.  Our services are performed by a licensed audiologist.

Services include hearing aid evaluations with pure tone audiometry and speech testing in addition to hearing aid fitting and dispensing.  South Texas ENT offers better hearing solutions through the use of state-of-the-art devices from reputable world-wide hearing instrument manufacturers.

All sizes and types of instruments are available at our office, with selections as individual as the person for whom they were designed.  From conventional hearing instruments with a manual volume control, to fully-automatic 100% digital sound processors, our audiologists can offer a solution to meet the medical, cosmetic and financial needs of our patients.

We are a full service hearing aid dealer.  Hearing aid batteries are available in packages of four, eight and 48 and can be purchased through the mail or by telephone.  We also provide cleaners, dehumidifiers and other hearing aid supplies. 


Tips for Buying Hearing Aids

  1. Receive a thorough hearing evaluation by a licensed audiologist before considering hearing aids.
  2. If hearing aids are recommended, obtain medical clearance from your physician prior to being fitted.
  3. Consider your lifestyle and the technology choices available.
  4. Your hearing aids should come with a return policy and manufacturer’s warranty. Ask about these items before you purchase.
  5. Your fitting will require several follow-up visits to ensure that the aid is properly adjusted.
  6. If you have any questions, please call our Audiology staff at 210/614-5600 ext. 113 or email audiology@southtexasent.com.

Assistive Listening Devices

Assistive listening devices for the hearing impaired:





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