Hearing loss can be categorized by many different types. Two types of hearing loss are sensorineural and conductive. Both types of hearing loss can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired.
What is sensorineural hearing loss?
Sensorineural hearing loss is a loss of function within the inner ear or with the connection to the brain. Causes of this type of hearing loss include:
congenital factors - conditions present at birth, such as:
infection by the mother with toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes, or syphilis
genetic factors and syndromes the child has at birth
low birthweight
hereditary - in the family
acquired
loud noise exposure
trauma
infections
damage from certain medications that can be harmful to the ears
Children's Hospital Boston is the primary pediatric teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
