Audiograms and Hearing Loss Configuration

What Is an Audiogram?

An audiogram is a graph of the results of a pure-tone hearing test. It shows how loud a sound needs to be at different frequencies for you to hear it. Frequency is the pitch or tone of a sound. The audiogram provides information about the type, degree (severity), and configuration (shape) of your hearing loss. Here's an example of what an audiogram looks like:

This graph shows the softest sounds you can hear at different frequencies (or pitches).

Each line that runs from left to right shows a frequency in Hertz (Hz). Low pitches are on the left and high pitches are on the right. The sounds tested can range from 125 Hz to 8000 Hz. Examples of low-frequency sounds are a note from a tuba or the “oo” sound in the word “who.” Examples of high-frequency sounds are a bird chirping or the “s” sound in the word “sun.”

Each line that runs from top to bottom shows how loud a sound is in decibels (dB). Soft sounds (0 dB) are at the top of the chart, and loud sounds (120 dB) are at the bottom.

In the audiogram above, you may have noticed the blue, banana-shaped area. On an audiogram, this "speech banana" is where the sounds in human speech are located. The sounds in this area typically range from 250 Hz to 4000 Hz in frequency (pitch) and from 20 dB to 60 dB in loudness.

Note: The “speech banana” pictured above applies to the English language. Different languages have different “speech bananas.”

How Does an Audiogram Represent Your Hearing?

During your hearing test, you'll listen to a series of tones through headphones and indicate when you hear them. The audiologist records the softest level at which you can hear each tone. Red O symbols typically represent the right ear, and blue X symbols represent the left ear. The farther down the graph these marks appear, the louder the tone had to be before you could hear it. This is a representation of your hearing loss.

Interpreting Your Audiogram

After your hearing test, the audiologist will use your audiogram results to determine if you have a hearing loss and the severity of the hearing loss.

They will look at the shape (configuration) of your results on the graph to identify your specific difficulties. For example, your hearing may be normal for low pitches, but not for high pitches. This is called a high-frequency hearing loss, and it may affect how clearly you hear and understand speech.

An audiogram may also indicate what type of hearing loss you have—conductive, sensorineural, or mixed. The audiogram can also reveal the following aspects of hearing loss:

• High-frequency vs. low-frequency hearing loss. Some people hear low-pitched sounds better than high-pitched sounds, or the other way around.
• Bilateral vs. unilateral hearing loss. You may have hearing loss in both ears (bilateral) or in one ear (unilateral).
• Symmetrical vs. asymmetrical hearing loss. If the hearing loss is similar in both ears, it is symmetrical. If it is different in each ear, the hearing loss is asymmetrical.
• Progressive vs. sudden hearing loss. Progressive hearing loss worsens over time. Sudden hearing loss happens quickly and requires immediate medical attention.
• Fluctuating vs. stable hearing loss. Fluctuating hearing loss changes over time. At times it gets better, and at times it gets worse. Stable hearing loss remains the same over time.
• Degree of hearing loss. The severity of your hearing loss can be mild, moderate, or severe. This description is based on how loud sounds need to be for you to hear them.

Understanding Your Hearing Loss

Hearing plays a central role in how we connect with others, enjoy music, engage in conversations, and stay safe in our surroundings. When hearing loss goes undetected or untreated, it can lead to frustration, social withdrawal, and even feelings of isolation.

Information on your audiogram can help your audiologist recommend treatment options, fine-tune hearing aids, or suggest ways to improve everyday communication.

If you have concerns about your hearing, talk to an audiologist. They can perform a comprehensive hearing evaluation, interpret your audiogram, and discuss potential treatment options tailored to your needs.

To find an audiologist near you, visit ProFind.