When does conductive hearing loss occur?

Conductive hearing loss occurs specifically when there is a failure in the parts of the ear responsible for transmitting mechanical energy, which includes elements such as the outer ear, eardrum, and ossicles (the small bones in the middle ear). This type of hearing loss can be caused by a variety of factors, such as ear infections, fluid in the middle ear, earwax buildup, or physical damage to the ear structures. Unlike other types of hearing loss, which are often related to sensorineural issues (involving nerve pathways or the inner ear), conductive hearing loss directly results from obstructions or malfunctions in the mechanical pathways of hearing.

The other options present scenarios that do not directly lead to conductive hearing loss. Damage from loud noise exposure typically results in sensorineural hearing loss due to damage to the hair cells in the inner ear. Environmental factors changing can influence hearing but are not a direct cause of conductive loss. Prolonged flight time may affect ear pressure and could lead to discomfort or temporary issues, but it does not specifically cause conductive hearing loss.