What type of hearing loss is characterized by damage to the inner ear structures?

Sensorineural hearing loss is characterized by damage to the inner ear structures, including the cochlea and the auditory nerve pathways. This type of hearing loss occurs when there is a disruption in the transmission of sound signals from the inner ear to the brain. It can result from various factors such as aging, exposure to loud noise, infections, genetic conditions, or ototoxic medications.

The inner ear is responsible for converting sound waves into electrical signals, which are then sent to the brain for processing. When the hair cells in the cochlea are damaged or the auditory nerve is affected, it impairs the ability to hear certain frequencies or can lead to a complete loss of hearing. This is different from conductive hearing loss, which involves issues in the outer or middle ear preventing sound from being conducted properly to the inner ear. Mixed hearing loss incorporates both sensorineural and conductive components. Central auditory processing disorder pertains to how the brain interprets sounds rather than the physical structures of hearing.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial in diagnosing the underlying cause of hearing loss and determining appropriate treatment options.