Introduction:
Hearing impairment is increasing in prevalence due to the hustle and bustle of the world we now live in. When we use the headphones in both ears and in only one ear, hearing loss in one ear becomes common. It increases the chances of hearing issues in one ear, but most of the people ignore it because they think hearing loss should only be treated when it affects both ears.Â
When you add continually using headphones to the natural process of ageing and the medical reasons that can lead to the deterioration of hearing quality, people fail to pay attention to the warning signs that occur with a hearing deficiency until it becomes difficult for them to communicate. There is no such thing as any kind of hearing weakness unless you see some hearing problem symptoms; you should also visit an audiologist and get a hearing loss test soon.Â
Summary:
If you should notice a problem regarding your hearing, or someone you know should, check to visit a trusted hearing aid centre for a full evaluation and find out the quality of their hearing by first getting checked. Checking if they are hearing properly, having clear communications, developing/strengthening relationships, and developing confidence for life.
I have created this comprehensive reference that will discuss the following:
- What is hearing loss?Â
- Hearing Loss in One EarÂ
- Options to Test for Hearing LossÂ
- What Level of Hearing Loss Would Call for a Hearing Aid?Â
- The Best Time to Visit an Audiologist or Hearing CentreÂ
Let’s start from the beginning and get this all together.
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Table of Contents
What is hearing loss?
One or both ears may experience partial or complete hearing loss, which is defined as the inability to hear sounds. Additionally, there are types of hearing loss that can occur suddenly (due to an injury, infection, or other medical issue) and those that develop gradually over a period of time.
There are three types of hearing loss: these include conductive hearing loss (problems and/or a blockage in the outer or middle ear), sensorineural (damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve), and mixed (a combination of conductive and sensorineural).
Ignoring a hearing problem can lead to decreased confidence, problems in social interactions, or mental health issues; thus, it is always better to seek medical attention sooner rather than later.Â
Symptoms to see a Doctor for One-Sided Hearing Loss
Symptom
What It May Indicate
Action
Sudden hearing loss
Possible nerve or inner ear issue
See ENT immediately (within 24–48 hrs)
Hearing loss with dizziness
Inner ear disorder
Book urgent check-up
Ringing in one ear
Tinnitus or nerve problem
Consult specialist
Ear pain or discharge
Infection
Seek medical treatment
Gradual worsening
Wax buildup or other condition
Schedule hearing test
Hearing Loss Test: How Is Hearing Checked?
If you face problems, the most important step will be to take a professional hearing loss test. A complete diagnosis helps to determine the seriousness and type of hearing loss.
Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA)
This is the most common hearing test. You wear headphones and respond when you hear different tones. It measures hearing levels in decibels (dB).
Speech Audiometry
This test checks how well you understand spoken words at different volumes.
Tympanometry
It evaluates the condition of the middle ear and eardrum.
OAE (Otoacoustic Emissions)
Commonly used for newborns and children to assess inner ear function.Our certified audiologist at the Ear Solutions hearing aid centre will guide you through the right test based on your symptoms.
Understanding Hearing Loss Levels (Measured in dB)
Degree of Hearing Loss
Hearing Level (dB)
Impact
Normal Hearing
0–25 dB
No difficulty
Mild
26–40 dB
Difficulty hearing soft sounds
Moderate
41–55 dB
Trouble with normal conversation
Moderately Severe
56–70 dB
Speech needs to be loud
Severe
71–90 dB
Very difficult to hear speech
Profound
91+ dB
May only hear very loud sounds
What Level of Hearing Loss Requires a Hearing Aid?
The question “What level of hearing loss requires a hearing aid?” is among the usual questions asked. A vast majority of individuals who experience moderate levels of impairment due to impairment (greater than 41 dB) gain significant assistance through the application of a hearing aid; however, those who experience mild levels of impairment may (depending on their personal situation) also find benefit from the use of a hearing aid.
For easier understanding, let’s put all this together clearly and straightforwardly:
Mild Hearing Loss (26–40 dB)
You may struggle in noisy environments or group conversations. Some people manage without hearing aids, but professionals often recommend early use to prevent listening fatigue and brain strain.
Moderate Hearing Loss (41–55 dB)
At this level, hearing aids are usually recommended. Conversations become difficult without amplification. You may frequently ask others to repeat themselves.
Moderately Severe to Severe (56–90 dB)
Hearing aids are strongly recommended. Without them, understanding speech becomes very challenging.
Profound Hearing Loss (91+ dB)
Powerful hearing aids or cochlear implants may be needed, depending on individual evaluation.
The final decision depends on:
Hearing test results
- Age
- Lifestyle
- Work environment
- Communication needs
An experienced audiologist at a trusted hearing aid centre will suggest the most suitable solution.
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Why Early Use of Hearing Aids Is Important
Many people delay using hearing aids because of stigma or denial. However, untreated hearing loss can lead to:
Social withdrawal
- Depression
- Cognitive decline
- Memory issues
- Reduced quality of life
Studies show that early treatment helps maintain brain function and communication skills.
Modern hearing aids are:
- Small and almost invisible
- Rechargeable
- Bluetooth-enabled
- Smart and automatic
They are very different from older bulky models.
When Should You Visit a Hearing Aid Centre?
You should consult a professional hearing aid centre if:
- You frequently ask people to repeat
- The TV volume is higher than normal.
- You struggle in noisy places.
- You feel that one ear hears less.
- You have ringing in your ears
At a certified centre, you will receive:
- Complete hearing loss test
- Expert consultation
- Hearing aid trial
- Custom fitting
- After-sales support
Professional guidance ensures you get the right device, not just any device.
Can Hearing Loss Be Prevented?
While not all hearing loss is preventable, you can reduce risk by:
- Avoiding loud noise exposure
- Using ear protection in noisy environments
- Managing diabetes and blood pressure
- Treating ear infections promptly
- Getting regular hearing check-ups
If you have a family history of hearing loss, regular screening becomes even more important.
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Conclusion
Hearing loss in one ear can affect anyone at any age and is more common than you think. An early diagnosis determines how you can correctly find how much hearing loss there is through using a professional hearing loss test (professional). Moderate amounts of hearing loss from this level and up will be required to be treated by some form of hearing aids, but there could be instances where you may require hearing aids if you have any amount of hearing loss, based on your living conditions.
A major reason you should not ignore these signs of hearing loss in yourself or your loved ones is that the effects of hearing loss can really hurt the quality of life.
Don’t wait for it to be too late to check your hearing with Ear Solutions Hearing Aid Centre. Come see a professional today if you feel that you need some attention for your ears!
FAQs
Hearing aids are usually recommended for moderate hearing loss (41 dB and above), but even mild cases may benefit.
Yes. Hearing loss in one ear can affect sound direction and speech clarity, so it should not be ignored.
A professional hearing loss test like Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA) helps measure hearing levels accurately.
Sometimes yes, but early use of hearing aids can prevent listening fatigue and communication problems.
If you frequently ask others to repeat, increase TV volume, or struggle in noisy places, get your hearing checked.
Prerna Singh
Audiologist, Ear Solutions
Prerna Singh is an Audiologist at Ear Solutions, focused on delivering compassionate, patient-centric hearing care. She works closely with individuals to understand their hearing concerns and guide them toward practical, technology-driven solutions that improve everyday communication and confidence.
At Ear Solutions, Prerna supports the organization’s long-standing mission of transforming lives through better hearing. She is committed to hearing awareness, accurate assessments, and continuous patient support-ensuring every individual receives the care they need to hear better and live better, in line with the vision of #AbSabSunenge.
