What Are the Stages of Hearing Loss?

Posted on by Advanced ENT & Allergy

Hearing loss occurs when part of the auditory system functions improperly. It can occur for various reasons from damage to inner ear hair cells to loss of function due to aging. Approximately 15% of American adults experience some trouble hearing. In some cases, hearing loss can be prevented, so a better understanding of hearing loss can allow you to take action to preserve your auditory health.

Types Of Hearing Loss

Young girl with hearing aid looks out window

There are three forms of hearing loss. The causes of hearing loss can impact the range of hearing loss as well as any potential treatments. The three types of hearing loss are:

  • Conductive: Hearing loss that occurs in the outer or middle ear. This form of hearing loss is usually treated with surgery or medication.
  • Sensorineural: Hearing loss occurring in the inner ear or with the hearing nerve.
  • Mixed: This is hearing loss that is both conductive and sensorineural.

Due to the cause of hearing loss, the degree of hearing loss can range from mild to profound. Understanding the different stages of hearing loss can help guide treatment options and prompt seeking the care of a hearing specialist.

Stages of Hearing Loss

There are five stages of hearing loss; each may impact social interactions differently. If you experience the symptoms of any of these stages, you should schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist.

The stages of hearing loss are classified by the quietest decibels a person can hear. The stages are as follows:

  • Mild hearing loss: Mild hearing loss occurs between 25 and 24 dB. This can potentially sound like a ticking clock or a soft whisper. A person with mild hearing loss may struggle to follow conversations in noisy settings at times, like out for coffee at Jersey Java and Tea Co. Consonant sounds may also be difficult to hear.
  • Moderate hearing loss: Moderate hearing loss ranges from 35 to 49 dB as the quietest sound a person can hear. Normal conversation falls in this range. Moderate hearing loss may cause a person to struggle to talk on the phone or follow most conversations. Hearing aids are recommended at this stage.
  • Moderately severe hearing loss: Moderately severe hearing loss is between 50 to 64 dB. People with moderately severe hearing loss may likely struggle to hear loud sounds like a dog barking, without the use of hearing aids. It would be very difficult for them to participate in conversation.
  • Severe hearing loss: Severe hearing loss takes place between 65 and 79 dB. Most sounds are unnoticed at this stage of hearing loss. Strong hearing aids are needed to participate in conversations.
  • Profound hearing loss: Profound hearing loss is when 80 dB or higher is the quietest sound that can be heard. Powerful hearing aids or cochlear implants are necessary.

Once severe or profound hearing loss is reached, a person may notice they rely on lip reading or sign language to aid their communication ability.

Hearing loss can occur in one or both ears, and each ear can have a varying degree of hearing loss. It can also occur gradually or suddenly due to injury or trauma. Sudden hearing loss often necessitates medical treatment.

If you or a loved one is experiencing hearing loss in any form it’s recommended to contact a hearing specialist. A hearing specialist can recommend hearing aids or ways to manage symptoms of hearing loss and improve communication abilities and overall quality of life.

To learn more about hearing loss or to schedule a hearing test, contact Advanced ENT & Allergy.