Different Types of Hearing Loss There are 3 main categories of hearing loss, known as conductive, sensorineural and mixed. Conductive hearing loss is usually referred to as temporary and is due to a physical obstruction restricting sound waves travelling sufficiently through the outer or middle ear. Sensorineural hearing loss is permanent as a result of damage occurring in the inner ear and/or auditory nerve. Mixed hearing loss as the name suggests is a mixture of both Conductive and Sensorineural. Your best option for treating any type of hearing loss is to seek treatment as early as possible and have regular hearing assessments to assess your auditory health. To find out more, click the "Learn More" button below.