What auditory impact is associated with the mass effect in otitis media?

In the context of otitis media, the mass effect typically leads to a conductive hearing loss, which occurs when sound is not efficiently conducted through the outer ear canal to the eardrum and the tiny bones of the middle ear. The fluid accumulation associated with otitis media predominantly affects the movement of the ossicles and other components within the middle ear.

The reason for the association with high frequencies in this scenario is due to the way sound travels through the structures of the ear. High-frequency sounds tend to be more sensitive to changes in middle ear function; therefore, a mass effect that causes a disruption in the normal mechanics of the ear will often produce a greater impact on the perception of high frequencies than on low frequencies. As a result, individuals with otitis media may experience a greater loss in their ability to hear higher frequency sounds due to the fluid or infection present.

The other options do not accurately describe the auditory impact associated with otitis media. Conductive hearing loss generally affects the ability to hear specific frequency ranges rather than causing sensorineural hearing loss or auditory hallucinations. These elements typically involve different underlying mechanisms that are not primarily influenced by the fluid build-up characteristic of otitis media.