Audiology Information
What is an Audiogram?
An audiogram is a graph that displays the results of a hearing test. Learning how to read your audiogram will help you better understand your hearing loss. On the audiogram, your hearing thresholds are plotted across different frequencies, or pitches, in a quiet listening environment. A hearing threshold is simply the minimum sound level that you can hear 50% of the time.
How to read your Audiogram -
Looking at the audiogram you will see two axes:
The horizontal (x-axis) represents frequency (pitch) from low to high (Hz). The lowest frequency tested is 250 Hz and the highest is usually 8000 Hz.
The vertical (y-axis) represents intensity (loudness) in dB with the lowest levels at the top.
Symbols on the Audiogram -
Several symbols are used on the audiogram. Shown on the right are the symbols used with the left ear in blue ink and the right ear in red ink.
Speech usually falls between 250 Hz and 6000 Hz
Source: American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. (1990). Audiometric symbols [Guidelines]. Available from www.asha.org/policy.
Degrees of Hearing Loss
The degree of hearing loss an individual has is based on how loud sounds need to be in order for an individual to hear them. Decibels or dB, describe loudness. Audiologists use the table below to classify the severity of hearing loss by where the symbols fall on the audiogram.
Degree of hearing loss
Normal
Slight
Mild
Moderate
Moderately Severe
Severe
Profound
Hearing loss range in dB
-10 to 15
16 to 25
26 to 40
41 to 55
56 to 70
71 to 90
91+
Types of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is categorized in three ways: conductive, sensorineural, or mixed.
Conductive hearing loss is commonly caused by a blockage in the outer ear. This includes a build-up of ear wax, ear infections, growths, or diseases such as otosclerosis.
Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type of hearing loss. This can be caused by noise exposure, aging, trauma, certain medications, genetics, or growths on the hearing nerve.
*Talk to your audiologist today for treatment options for all three types of hearing loss.
Hearing Aid Styles
Hearing aids vary in size, placement in or on the ear, and power depending on the type of device. Finding the appropriate style for you will depend on your hearing loss and cosmetic concerns. Ask your audiologist today for recommendations specific to you.
Behind-the-Ear
Receiver-in-the-Ear
In-the-Ear
Invisible-in-the-Ear
3 Steps Toward Hearing Loss Prevention
Always wear hearing protection in noisy areas. Hearing protection includes earplugs, earmuffs, etc.
When listening to music - keep the volume at a safe level. No more than 2/3 of the way high.
Reduce time in noise areas. Give yourself listening breaks.
Healthy hearing with headphones brochure.pdfUnderstanding Hearing Loss and Your Health
Co-Morbid diseases handout.pdf