Levels of hearing loss
Hearing loss is measured in decibels (dB). Your child's audiogram will show:
| Level | Range | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Mild | 20–40 dB | May miss quiet sounds, needs good seating in class |
| Moderate | 41–70 dB | Needs hearing aids, may struggle in noisy places |
| Severe | 71–95 dB | Relies heavily on hearing aids or cochlear implants |
| Profound | 95+ dB | Very little or no hearing even with aids |
Types of hearing loss
- Conductive – sound cannot pass through the outer or middle ear (often temporary, e.g. glue ear)
- Sensorineural – inner ear or auditory nerve damage (usually permanent)
- Mixed – a combination of both
- Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder (ANSD) – the ear detects sound but the brain cannot process it properly
Causes in children
- Genetic conditions
- Infections during pregnancy (e.g. CMV, rubella)
- Prematurity or low birth weight
- Meningitis or other infections after birth
- Glue ear (very common, usually temporary)
Newborn hearing screening
In the UK, almost all babies have a Newborn Hearing Screening Programme (NHSP) test shortly after birth. If your baby did not pass, you should be offered further tests.
Early diagnosis means early support — and better outcomes for speech, language, and learning.
What to ask at your audiology appointment
- "What type and level of hearing loss does my child have?"
- "Is it likely to change?"
- "What hearing aids or implants are suitable?"
- "When will we see the Teacher of the Deaf?"