Hearing acuity refers to the ability of the human ear to perceive sounds. It is specific to each individual and changes with age. Normal or diminished hearing acuity, causes, measurement, test…
The hearing acuity of a human being corresponds to the ability of an individual’s ear to perceive sounds. It’s actually the audition. It varies from person to person. How to measure hearing acuity? What is thenormal hearing acuity ? From what acuity do we say that we are deaf?
What is the definition of hearing acuity?
Hearing acuity refers to the ability of the human ear to perceive sounds. It is specific to each individual and evolves throughout life. It can be determined by hereditary factors, by age or by the training of the ear in the perception of frequencies. Hearing acuity may measure by audiometric testor audiogram, which consists of listening to frequencies of varying intensities, using specialized audiometric equipment.
Audiometry is the hearing test that assesses the type and degree of hearing loss. This test is performed with a helmet, in a soundproof environment. This device makes it possible to seek the smallest auditory sensation perceived on different frequencies: bass, midrange and treble.underlines the general practitioner.
What is normal hearing acuity?
Hearing acuity between 0 and 20 dB is considered normal. In an adolescent, normal hearing acuity is close to 0 dB.
| Degree of hearing loss | Hearing loss range in decibel (dB) |
|---|---|
| Normal hearing acuity | Between -10 and 20 |
| Mild deafness | Between 21 and 40 |
| Moderate deafness | Between 41 and 70 |
| Severe deafness | Between 71 and 90 |
| Profound deafness | Greater than 91 |
What are the causes of diminished hearing?
After 50 yearsthe hair cells of the inner ear gradually deteriorate and cause hearing loss. “In the majority of cases, presbycusis happens gradually. This natural phenomenon is similar to that of presbyopia for vision. It is not uncommon for those affected not to realize it right away. It is often the entourage who makes them notice this deficit“, observes Dr. Patrick Aubé.
When a loss of hearing is detected, it is possible, thanks to the audiogram, to quantify it by a percentage of loss.
- Between 0 and 20%: Mild deafness.
- Between 20 and 60%: Moderate deafness.
- Between 60 and 80%: Severe deafness.
- Between 80 and 100%: Deep deafness.
What to do in case of hearing loss?
“Hearing loss is not a disease or a fatality. Hearing aids are an aid that can significantly improve the comfort of the person’s life and that of those around them”reassures the general practitioner.
Thanks to Dr. Patrick Aubé. general practitioner.