Hearing Loss

• Conductive Hearing Loss – Caused by blockages or damage in the outer or middle ear, preventing sound from reaching the inner ear. Common causes include ear infections, fluid buildup, earwax blockage, or structural issues.
• Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SNHL) – Results from damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or auditory nerve. This type is usually permanent & can be caused by aging, noise exposure, genetics, or certain medical conditions.
• Mixed Hearing Loss – A combination of both conductive & sensorineural hearing loss, meaning there is damage in both the outer/middle ear & the inner ear or nerve pathways.

Hearing loss often starts subtly. You might notice you’re asking others to repeat themselves, turning up the volume on the TV, or struggling to hear in group settings. Ringing in the ears (tinnitus) is also a frequent early symptom.

Yes. Treatment depends on the type and cause. Conductive hearing loss may be corrected with medication or minor procedures, while sensorineural hearing loss is usually managed with hearing aids or assistive devices. Our team creates customized solutions based on your hearing needs.

Hearing loss can occur at any stage in life, and may be due to age, genetics, or trauma. At Vernose & McGrath in Philadelphia, we’ll work with you to treat your hearing loss, whether it has occurred suddenly or over the course of time. Understanding the basics of hearing loss can help determine which treatments are ideal for you.

Common types of hearing loss in individuals from all backgrounds in Philadelphia include:

• Sensorineural: Sensorineural hearing loss is classified as a result of damage to the inner ear. This can interrupt pathways to the brain, causing hearing issues when not treated.
• Conductive: Conductive hearing loss can occur in either the middle or outer ear.

At Vernose & McGrath in Philadelphia, we specialize in diagnosing unilateral (affecting one ear) as well as mixed types of hearing loss. This allows us to determine if you require cochlear implants or alternative hearing aids. We’ll also help you determine if you will benefit from professional earwax removal, depending on the results of your comprehensive examination. 

Treatments available for unilateral or complete hearing loss at Vernose & McGrath in Philadelphia include:

• Hearing Aids: One of the most common solutions to help improve mixed and sensorineural hearing loss in Philadelphia includes hearing aids. Our aids assist in amplification and can do so seamlessly with modern device technology.
• CROS Hearing Aids: CROS hearing aids are optimal for those who struggle with unilateral hearing loss (in just one ear). They work by transmitting sound from the healthy ear of an individual to the ear which is no longer working properly. Anyone who has unilateral hearing loss in Philadelphia will want to learn more about CROS hearing aid solutions.
• Cochlear Implants: For those struggling with severe hearing loss in Philadelphia, cochlear implants may be ideal. These devices are surgically implanted and can help those who have always experienced hearing loss or the inability to hear with clarity and proper amplification.

Struggling with sudden or ongoing hearing loss can reduce your overall quality of life. To learn more about our earwax removal services, the hearing aids we offer, and the hearing loss treatments we provide, contact Vernose & McGrath in Philadelphia for your consultation today.

A hearing evaluation includes a review of your medical history, a physical exam of your ears, and a series of painless tests to measure your hearing ability. This allows us to determine the type and severity of hearing loss and recommend the best treatment options.