Understanding mild hearing loss: The dangers, causes, impacts and treatments

Mild Hearing Loss

Why mild hearing loss isn't harmless and shouldn't be ignored

Mild hearing loss overview

Mild hearing loss involves difficulty hearing soft sounds and understanding speech in noisy environments. It typically affects hearing thresholds between 26 to 40 decibels. Common causes include ageing, noise exposure, and ear infections. Treatment options include hearing aids and assistive devices to improve sound clarity and communication.

In this article, we explore the causes, effects, and available treatment options for mild hearing loss, which we hope will shed light on this often-overlooked level of hearing loss.

Fake it until you make it

Hearing loss is separated into levels of severity from mild to profound. If you have mild hearing loss, your loss is not classed as severe which means that you may be inclined to take on the “fake it until you make it” approach.  Here lies the danger, as because the loss is mild it can be more subtle than obvious.  Thus making it easier to disregard.

What is mild hearing loss?  What is the mild hearing loss range?

Mild hearing loss is a relatively common auditory impairment that affects a significant portion of the UK’s population. While it is not considered as severe as profound hearing loss, mild hearing loss can still have a noticeable impact on quality of life.

For example, it can be a barrier to communication at home and in the office as well as affect overall health and well-being.

When we take a look at mild hearing impairment characteristics, it typically affects sounds that are quieter than 25 dB (decibels). Those with mild hearing loss often struggle to hear soft or distant sounds, as well as find it challenging to understand speech in noisy environments and within conversations on the phone.

So, what does mild hearing loss sound like? 

If you have mild hearing loss you may also struggle with high and low-frequency sounds.  In fact, most people lose the ability to hear high-frequency sounds first.  Those with this level of hearing loss often complain that although they can hear conversations, they can’t actually fully understand them.

Is mild hearing loss normal?  Yes, mild hearing loss can be considered within the range of normal variations in hearing ability. Many people experience mild hearing loss as they age or because of other factors such as noise exposure or genetics.

While it may not significantly impact daily functioning for some, others may benefit from interventions and treatments such as hearing aids.

Mild hearing loss causes

What are the causes of mild hearing loss?  There can be various causes of mild hearing loss, including genetics, exposure to loud noises, ageing (presbycusis), certain medications (ototoxicity), infections, and medical conditions like otosclerosis or Meniere's disease. It is important to identify and address such causes, as some may be reversible or treatable. 

The earlier the diagnosis the higher the success rate for effective hearing healthcare treatment in the future.

The effects of mild hearing loss

Is mild hearing loss bad?

How does mild hearing loss affect the quality of life? 

Mild hearing loss can significantly impact your ability to communicate and overall quality of life.  It may lead to misunderstandings, increased effort to understand speech, social isolation, and a slight decrease in taking part in social gatherings and enjoyable activities.

In social settings, those with mild hearing loss may struggle to follow conversations which can lead to feeling frustrated, reduce confidence, and ultimately affect mental health.  In professional settings, mild hearing loss can affect job performance, restrict communication with colleagues, and hinder career advancement. 

It may also strain personal relationships, as communication slowly breaks down - leading to misunderstandings and strained interactions with family and friends.

What are the treatments for mild hearing loss?  Can mild hearing loss be reversed?

Fortunately, there are several treatment options available for those with mild hearing loss. The most common and effective solution is hearing aids. Modern hearing aids are technologically advanced devices that can amplify sounds, improve speech understanding and offer hearing personalisation.

They come in various styles, including behind-the-ear (BTE), in-the-ear (ITE), receiver-in-canal (RIC), and other types - offering options that suit preferences, needs, and hearing loss levels.

Can you prevent mild hearing loss?

The most preventable type of hearing loss is noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL).  This is a condition that affects millions in the UK.  However, many types of hearing protective devices are available to help you keep your hearing safe from noise-induced hearing loss.  These are:

• Foam earplugs:  These earplugs are ideal for basic noise prevention.
• In-ear monitors:  These are custom-made devices for musicians to protect hearing and control the amount of sound they hear from each instrument.
• Filtered earplugs:  These are great for music lovers who want to enjoy a concert without affecting the fidelity of sound.
• Percussive filters:  These are custom moulded for those who enjoy shooting sports.

Mild hearing loss diagnosis

How is mild hearing loss diagnosed?  Diagnosing mild hearing loss typically involves a thorough hearing evaluation conducted by an audiologist. The process begins with a discussion of your medical history and any concerns related to hearing ability in general.

The audiologist will then perform a series of tests, such as pure-tone audiometry, where you listen to tones at various frequencies and volumes.

The results are plotted on an audiogram, which helps determine the degree and type of hearing loss. Speech audiometry may also be conducted to assess the ability to understand and repeat words. Through these tests, an audiologist can accurately diagnose mild hearing loss and provide appropriate recommendations for management and treatment going forward.

Looking at mild hearing loss and hearing aids

What are the best hearing aids for mild hearing loss?

Can mild hearing loss be corrected?

There is good news, those who have mild hearing loss are generally great candidates for hearing aids.  Hearing aid technology is more advanced than ever,  aesthetically subtle, and supports all degrees of hearing loss.  Even though mild hearing loss is not as severe as profound hearing loss - it is still significant. 

This is why recognising and understanding the signs of mild hearing loss is important.  Seeking early diagnosis and exploring appropriate treatment options can increase the effectiveness of how mild hearing loss is managed. 

With advancements in hearing aid technology, people with mild hearing loss can regain their ability to engage in conversations, improve their quality of life, and enjoy a more fulfilling listening experience.

►Click here to go to the top of the page