What are the three types of hearing loss associated with prolonged exposure to noise?

The three types of hearing loss associated with prolonged exposure to noise are conductive, sensorineural, and mixed.

Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves are not effectively transmitted through the outer ear canal to the eardrum and the tiny bones of the middle ear. This type of hearing loss can result from factors such as earwax buildup or fluid in the ear, and while it may be temporary, it can lead to complications if not addressed.

Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common outcome of prolonged exposure to loud noise. It occurs due to damage to the inner ear's sensory cells or the auditory nerve pathway. This kind of hearing loss can be permanent and is often associated with aging or exposure to harmful noise levels over time.

Mixed hearing loss combines elements of both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. This means that individuals may experience a combination of impediments in the outer or middle ear along with damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve, making it a more complex condition to treat.

Understanding these types helps in diagnosing the impacts of noise on hearing, and points towards appropriate interventions or management strategies. Other choices do not accurately describe the categories of hearing loss specifically related to noise exposure or define them in a clinically recognized framework.