what is an audiogram

Hearing Test: What is an Audiogram?

What is an audiogram? How does it work? 

There are several different aspects of a hearing test, but the audiogram, or audio, is the central piece. Through a range of frequencies moving left to right, the audio maps your range of hearing. From top to bottom, it shows the minimum amount of decibels needed for you to hear at each frequency. Points towards the bottom of the graph indicate more hearing loss.

The lines you see in the examples show different degrees and types of hearing loss. Anything above the line is sound you can comfortably hear.  A sloping line shows frequencies at one end of the spectrum will be more difficult than frequencies at the other end. 

A flat line shows the patient can hear all frequencies at the same decibel level. Many people diagnosed with age-related hearing loss have more difficulty with high frequencies, which is why they may have a hard time hearing children and women with high voices.

Also highlighted in these examples is the “speech banana.” This is the region of frequencies and decibels in which conversations usually take place. If only part of your range of hearing falls under the speech banana, then you might notice some difficulty hearing everything being said in conversations.

Hearing loss looks different for each person, and no two audios are the same. Your audiologist will explain your hearing test results to you and discuss various difficulties you may notice in your day-to-day life.

Understanding Hearing Test Results

Hearing tests are typically conducted by an audiologist or hearing healthcare professional to assess an individual’s ability to hear sounds and identify any hearing problems. 

The results of a hearing test can provide vital information about a person’s hearing ability, the type of hearing loss, and the potential treatment options available.
 

It’s crucial to discuss your hearing test results with an audiologist who can help you understand what the results mean for your hearing health and recommend any necessary treatment options.

Hearing Tests in Fort Wayne, Indiana

HearCare Audiology provides hearing tests and other diagnostic services in Fort Wayne, IN.

Contact us to schedule a consultation!

 

Are You Ready To Hear Better?

Hearing better starts with a diagnostic hearing test to pinpoint the strengths and weaknesses of your hearing and a conversation with a hearing health care professional to determine what measures you can take to improve your hearing.