Many people ignore the early signs of mild-to-moderate hearing loss, thinking it is just a minor issue, but timely detection is crucial. In this blog, we will explore what mild-to-moderate hearing loss means, its common symptoms, how it can be tested, and the solutions available to improve
What is Mild-to-Moderate Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss occurs when the ears or auditory pathways cannot process sounds effectively. In mild-to-moderate cases, the ability to hear soft sounds or speech from a distance becomes difficult. Everyday situations like listening to a low conversation, watching TV at normal volume, or talking on the phone in a noisy environment can feel challenging.
Symptoms
· Difficulty hearing whispers, soft voices, or sounds like birds chirping.
· Trouble following conversations when there is background noise.
· Asking people to repeat themselves frequently.
· Increasing the TV or music volume higher than usual.
· Struggling to hear clearly on phone calls.
· Feeling ringing, buzzing, or tinnitus in one or both ears.
How is Mild-to-Moderate Hearing Loss Diagnosed?
The only way to confirm the extent of is through professional evaluation by an audiologist.
1. Pure-Tone Audiometry
This is the most widely used test where patients listen to sounds at different pitches and volumes through headphones. The results are plotted on an audiogram, showing the exact level of hearing loss.
2. Speech Testing
This test checks how well you can understand words and sentences in quiet as well as noisy conditions. It helps audiologists evaluate your real-world listening ability.
3. Tympanometry
This test assesses the movement of the eardrum and helps detect middle ear problems, fluid, or blockages.
4. Advanced Tests
In some cases, advanced tests such as BERA (Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry) or ASSR (Auditory Steady-State Response) may be recommended to evaluate how the brain responds to sound.