subject: Measuring Hearing Loss [print this page] Another way of putting hearing loss in perspective is to consider what the effects of this kind of loss are on an individual as well as what they might do to remedy the situation. Those who can hear sounds at around 20 dB or less have what could be considered "normal" hearing. Mild hearing loss usually means that, although the loss is not very extensive, one might have trouble following a conversation or distinguishing other sounds when in a loud environment. Moderate hearing loss is more severe than this, but usually less than 70 dB of hearing loss. Those with this level of loss will have trouble listening to a conversation without a hearing aid of some sort. More severe hearing loss means that an individual is very dependent on a hearing aid or implant in order to hear. Extreme hearing loss is what most would consider borderline deaf, at best. Those with this type of loss depend on sign language, written text, captioned media, and lip reading. Some may benefit from an implant.
