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?
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?
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.