Hearing loss is a condition that affects millions of people around the world. It can range from mild to severe, and the severity of the condition can determine whether or not a hearing aid is necessary. In this article, we'll explore the different levels of hearing loss and when a hearing aid may be required. The lowest sound that can be heard is measured in decibels (dB HL).
If a person can hear between 0 and 20 dB HL over the entire speech range, then their hearing is considered normal. However, if a person has a loss of 25 dB HL in one ear, they are considered to have hearing loss. If your hearing is in the range of 26 to 70 dB (mild to moderate), a hearing aid can be very effective in restoring the sounds of your daily life. For those with severe hearing loss, a hearing aid may be useful, but this level may require a middle ear implant or a cochlear implant to improve hearing.
Unfortunately, hearing aids are most likely not effective for people with profound hearing loss; a cochlear implant may be useful. Mild hearing loss occurs when sounds approach 30 dB before you hear them. Moderate hearing loss occurs when sounds approach 50 dB before you hear them. Profound hearing loss occurs when the lowest sound you can hear is 80 dB or more. For many people with hearing loss, having hearing aids in place makes a significant difference in their quality of life and improves their daily experiences. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can provide reasonable and necessary support to people with hearing loss who do not qualify for the supports provided by the Hearing Services Program (HSP).Your hearing level can be determined during a hearing test that graphically represents the sounds you can hear on an audiogram.
Scheduling regular visits will help the audiologist establish a normal hearing pattern for you and will allow you to detect any hearing deterioration more quickly. Generally speaking, the lowest level of hearing loss required by a hearing aid is moderate hearing loss, and the use of hearing aids is also likely to be recommended in hearing loss categories higher than this level. Advanced technology such as auditory processing disorder testing, tinnitus treatment, earwax removal, teleaudiology, and more are available to help those with hearing loss. It's crucial to remember that everyone's hearing abilities and experiences of hearing loss are different. Sensorineural hearing loss is usually permanent, and hearing aids are often used as the main form of treatment. It is well documented that one of the biggest consequences of untreated hearing is an increase in the likelihood of suffering from dementia and that the brain forgets how to hear. If you think you may have some degree of hearing loss, it's important to have your hearing tested as soon as possible.
This will help you make an informed decision about whether or not you need a hearing aid.
