Degrees of Hearing Loss
Hearing Loss Classifications
Hearing threshold (in decibels, dB)
0 – 25 dB
Ability to hear speech
No difficulty
Hearing threshold (in decibels, dB)
16 – 25 dB
Ability to hear speech
Very soft speech is difficult to hear, especially from far away. Background noise can worsen comprehension.
Hearing threshold (in decibels, dB)
26 – 40 dB
Ability to hear speech
Soft speech is muffled but comprehensible in quiet environments. Noise and reverb can further complicate speech.
Hearing threshold (in decibels, dB)
41 – 55 dB
Ability to hear speech
Speech is difficult to understand even in quiet situations, and background noise is highly distracting. Audio must be at a high volume to be heard.
Hearing threshold (in decibels, dB)
56 – 70 dB
Ability to hear speech
Speech is muddy and requires amplification. Communicating with a group is difficult.
Hearing threshold (in decibels, dB)
71 – 90 dB
Ability to hear speech
Conversations at regular volume cannot be heard, and even loud speech is difficult to understand. Amplification offers little help.
Hearing threshold (in decibels, dB)
91+ dB
Ability to hear speech
Most speech is inaudible, even with significant amplification.
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FAQ
What are the 4 levels of hearing loss?
There are four levels of hearing loss. The first is sensorineural hearing loss that is a result of damage to the inner ear. Make sure to see an audiologist if you are experiencing any problems with hearing. The second is conductive hearing loss where sound waves aren't getting to the inner ear. This is the most common type of hearing loss. The third is mixed hearing loss where there are both conductive and sensorineural problems. The fourth is mixed conductive and sensorineural hearing loss where both types of hearing loss coexist.
How do you determine the degree of hearing loss?
A test that is done by an audiologist is the best way to determine degrees of hearing loss.
What is mild hearing loss?
Mild hearing loss is defined as a hearing loss that is more than just a ringing in the ears. It is a hearing loss that is not severe enough to interfere with daily activities, but you can still hear loud noise.
Which is worse mild or moderate hearing loss?
Mild hearing loss usually has a lower risk of complications than moderate hearing loss. Mild hearing loss is when there is a decrease in hearing without any external hearing losses. Moderate hearing loss is when there is an external hearing loss as well as an internal hearing loss.