Degree of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is a partial or total inability to hear sounds. It can occur in one or both ears and has a variety of causes. Not all hearing loss is the same. There are several ways to describe hearing loss. The type of hearing loss depends on what part of the hearing system is affected. The configuration of hearing loss refers to the “shape” of your hearing loss on an audiogram—a graph of your hearing test results.
What Is the Degree of Hearing Loss?
The degree of hearing loss is a way to describe the severity of hearing loss. It is measured in decibels hearing level (dB HL). Hearing loss can range from mild to profound.
The degree of hearing loss is categorized based on how loud sounds need to be for you to hear them. These categories help audiologists determine the severity of your hearing loss and make personalized treatment plans.
| Degree of hearing loss | Hearing loss range (dB HL) |
| Normal | -10 to 15 |
| Slight | 16 to 25 |
| Mild | 26 to 40 |
| Moderate | 41 to 55 |
| Moderately severe | 56 to 70 |
| Severe | 71 to 90 |
| Profound | 91+ |
Source: Clark, J. G. (1981). Uses and abuses of hearing loss classification. Asha, 23, 493-500.
It is important to note that not all professionals agree on the cutoff for “normal” hearing. Although the above chart specifies 15 dB HL, some professionals use 20 dB HL or 25 dB HL.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you think you, or someone close to you, may be experiencing hearing loss, reach out to an audiologist to have your hearing checked.
To find an audiologist near you, visit ProFind.
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ASHA ProFind is your connection to over 30,000 ASHA-certified audiologists and speech-language pathologists. Find the right professional for your needs.
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Find a Professional
ASHA ProFind is your connection to over 30,000 ASHA-certified audiologists and speech-language pathologists. Find the right professional for your needs.
Search Now