H90.1

Clinical Causes: Ear infections (otitis media) causing fluid buildup in the middle ear Eustachian tube dysfunction preventing proper pressure regulation Eardrum perforation or damage Presence of ear wax (cerumen impaction) Otitis media with effusion (fluid in the middle ear without infection) Otosclerosis (abnormal bone growth in the middle ear) Abnormalities or malformations of the middle ear structures Trauma or injury to the ear or ear canal Tumors or growths affecting the middle ear space

Key Symptoms: Difficulty hearing sounds from the affected side Hearing is clearer on the unaffected side Possible feeling of fullness or pressure in the affected ear Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear) Occasional dizziness or imbalance Difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments Delayed or impaired response to sounds from the affected side

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis involves a thorough medical history and physical examination of the ear. Hearing tests such as audiometry can determine the degree and type of hearing loss. Otoscopic examination allows visualization of the ear canal and eardrum to identify blockages or damage. Additional tests like tympanometry assess middle ear function, and imaging studies may be used to evaluate structural abnormalities or growths. An audiologist or ENT specialist is typically involved in diagnosing and planning treatment.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the conductive hearing loss. Options include: - Removing earwax impaction through safe ear cleaning procedures - Managing ear infections with appropriate medications - Eustachian tube dysfunction treatment, such as nasal decongestants or surgery - Repairing perforated eardrums via surgical procedures like tympanoplasty - Surgical intervention for otosclerosis, such as stapes surgery - Addressing structural abnormalities or growths through surgery - Use of hearing aids or assistive listening devices to improve hearing clarity In some cases, conservative management with monitoring may be appropriate if the condition is temporary or mild.