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A group of five adults and seniors, including a man and woman wearing Philips HearLink hearing aids sit on a couch playing Jenga together on a large coffee table

Hearing terms guide

Get familiar with words and phrases around hearing aids​

Having hearing loss or being close to someone who has can be challenging and confusing, especially with all the new terminology. The articles in this guide aim to help you better navigate and understand the world of hearing aids. We hope it will allow you to feel more comfortable when exploring your options and talking to an audiologist or hearing care specialist.

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  • Hearing loss
    Hearing loss is a reduction in your hearing acuity. It can affect people of all ages, from newborn babies to the elderly, and can occur for many reasons.
    See more
  • Sensorineural hearing loss
    Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when the inner ear or hearing nerve is damaged or unable to process sound as intended. This type of hearing loss can be acquired or genetic and can affect people of all ages.
    See more
  • What is conductive hearing loss?
    Conductive hearing loss happens through damage or obstruction in the outer or middle ear.
    See more
  • What is mixed hearing loss?
    Mixed hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. Find out what this means and how to treat mixed hearing loss here.
    See more
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