sordera

Sordera is the general term in Spanish for the partial or complete loss of the ability to hear. It can refer to congenital deafness present at birth or to acquired deafness developed later. In clinical contexts, deafness is often classified by the type of hearing loss: conductive, sensorineural, or mixed.

Causes include genetic factors, age-related hearing loss (presbycusis), prolonged exposure to loud noise, infections of the ear, head trauma, ototoxic medications, and certain diseases. Environmental and lifestyle factors, such as smoking or cardiovascular conditions, can contribute, and tumors in the ear region may also cause deafness.

Diagnosis relies on audiometric testing and medical evaluation. Pure-tone audiometry measures hearing thresholds across frequencies; tympanometry assesses middle-ear function; speech audiometry evaluates understanding of speech. Imaging studies may be used to identify structural problems.

Treatment and management depend on the cause and degree of deafness. Reversible conditions may be treated medically or surgically. Assistive devices such as hearing aids or cochlear implants can improve or restore hearing in many cases. Rehabilitation, sign language, and communication strategies are important for social participation and quality of life.

The term sordera derives from sordo, meaning deaf, from Latin surdus, with the -era suffix forming a noun of state. The word is used in medical, educational, and legal contexts to denote the condition of being unable to hear.