Hearing loss can be caused by many different causes, most of which can be successfully treated with medication, physical excercise (Valsalva maneuver) or surgery, depending on the disease process.

Three types of hearing loss

1. Conductive hearing loss (CHL)is present when hearing loss is due to problems with the outer ear canal, ear drum (tympanic membrane), middle ear and its little bones (the malleus, incus, and stapes) or Eustachian tube dysfunction (equalization of pressure on each side oft he ear drum is disturbed).
2. Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL)is present when hearing loss is due to problems oft the inner ear (cochlea) and the auditory nerve in the inner ear canal.
3. Mixed hearing loss (MHL)refers to a combination of CHL and SNHL. This means that there may be damage in all portions of the ear.

If you suspect you may have a hearing loss, call us. After an initial evaluation in the office, our team may schedule you for a hearing test. Here is some information to help you prepare for your initual visit at ENTinCayman:

(pdf-file with content below for download)

What you can do:
– List any symptoms you are experiencing, and for how long (days, weeks, months or years?).
– Hearing loss in one ear or both?
– Write down key information, especially related to any problems you have had with your ears (inflammation in childhood, accidents, acoustic trauma, jobs that exposed you to high noise level, medications).
– Provide copies of previously performed hearing test, medical and surgical reports as well as of imaging (X-ray, CT- and MRI-scans) if applicable.
–  Write down questions to at your appointment. Having a list of questions in advance can help you make the most of your time with Dr. Ecke.

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) is a rapid loss of hearing, most often in one ear, either within minutes or over several days. SSHL is a medical emergency and a patient who experiences SSHL should visit an ENT-specialist immediately.