Muffled hearing in one ear can result from a form of conductive hearing loss. Conductive hearing loss is hearing loss that is caused by a blockage of sound from travelling from the outer ear to the inner ear.
Unlike sensorineural hearing loss, conductive hearing loss is often temporary. The physician will identify the cause for the hearing loss and recommend treatment.
If the ear canal is clogged with fluid, it may be a condition called glue ear. The clogged ear develops muffled hearing and possibly hearing loss.
The severity of the hearing loss caused by glue ear is related to the thickness of the fluid trapped in the ear. Glue ear can often be treated in the physicians office by the drainage of the fluid.
Conductive hearing loss can also be caused by a blockage of earwax. The person should avoid sticking something in the ear to try to remove the earwax buildup. The use of an earwax removal kit is much safer.
Noncancerous tumors can cause muffled hearing in one ear if the tumor is obstructing the passage of sound from the outer ear to the inner ear. If a noncancerous tumor is discovered, the physician may discuss treatment options which may involve the surgical removal of the noncancerous tumor.
A perforated eardrum can cause muffled hearing in one ear. An eardrum can be ruptured from injury, auditory trauma, or infection. A sudden change in air pressure like that caused by an explosion or exposure to a loud, sudden noise can be the source of the damage the ear by auditory trauma.
Severe cases may require surgery to repair the perforation though the eardrum heals without treatment in most cases. Often, the hearing returns to normal once the perforated eardrum heals.
Ear infections can cause muffled hearing in one ear. The ear infection should be promptly treated by a physician since an untreated ear infection can lead to permanent hearing loss.
Related posts: