Demystifying Hearing Test Results: Interpreting Audiogram Results with Confidence
- mamphodlulane
- Jan 7
- 4 min read
When you walk into a clinic for a hearing test, the experience can feel a bit overwhelming. You sit in a quiet room, wear headphones, and respond to beeps and tones. Later, you receive a sheet filled with lines, numbers, and symbols that might look like a secret code. I’ve been there, and I know how confusing it can be. But understanding your hearing test results is crucial for taking control of your hearing health. Today, I want to guide you through the process of interpreting audiogram results so you can feel confident and informed.
What Is an Audiogram and How Do You Interpret Audiogram Results?
An audiogram is a graph that shows the softest sounds you can hear at different frequencies or pitches. It’s the main tool audiologists use to assess your hearing. The horizontal axis represents frequency (measured in Hertz, Hz), ranging from low to high pitches. The vertical axis shows hearing level in decibels (dB), which measures loudness. The lower the number on the vertical axis, the softer the sound you can hear.
When you look at your audiogram, you’ll see two lines or sets of symbols—one for each ear. These lines plot your hearing thresholds across frequencies. The closer the line is to the top of the graph, the better your hearing. If the line dips lower, it means you need louder sounds to hear at those frequencies.
Understanding this graph is the first step in knowing what your hearing test results mean. It’s like reading a map of your hearing ability.
What’s a Good Score on a Hearing Test?
You might wonder, “What’s a good score on a hearing test?” The answer depends on the decibel levels recorded on your audiogram. Hearing is typically classified into categories based on the softest sounds you can detect:
Normal hearing: 0 to 20 dB HL (hearing level)
Mild hearing loss: 21 to 40 dB HL
Moderate hearing loss: 41 to 55 dB HL
Moderately severe hearing loss: 56 to 70 dB HL
Severe hearing loss: 71 to 90 dB HL
Profound hearing loss: 91+ dB HL
If your audiogram shows thresholds mostly within the 0 to 20 dB range, congratulations! Your hearing is considered normal. But if you see numbers creeping higher, it’s a sign to take action.
For example, if you have mild hearing loss, you might notice difficulty hearing soft sounds or understanding speech in noisy environments. Moderate or worse hearing loss usually requires intervention, such as hearing aids or other assistive devices.
Remember, these categories are guidelines. Your audiologist will interpret your results in the context of your lifestyle and hearing needs.
How to Read the Symbols and Lines on Your Audiogram
The audiogram uses specific symbols to represent your hearing thresholds:
O (circle) for the right ear air conduction
X (cross) for the left ear air conduction
< and > for bone conduction thresholds (right and left ear respectively)
Air conduction tests measure how well sound travels through your outer and middle ear to the inner ear. Bone conduction tests bypass the outer and middle ear by sending vibrations directly to the inner ear. Comparing these results helps identify the type of hearing loss:
Conductive hearing loss: Problem in the outer or middle ear; bone conduction thresholds are better than air conduction.
Sensorineural hearing loss: Problem in the inner ear or auditory nerve; air and bone conduction thresholds are similar.
Mixed hearing loss: Combination of both conductive and sensorineural issues.
Your audiologist will explain these results, but knowing what the symbols mean helps you follow along.
What Do Different Frequencies Mean for Your Hearing?
Frequencies on the audiogram range from low (250 Hz) to high (8000 Hz). Each frequency corresponds to different sounds in everyday life:
Low frequencies (250-500 Hz): Deep sounds like a bass drum or male voices.
Mid frequencies (1000-2000 Hz): Most speech sounds, including vowels.
High frequencies (3000-8000 Hz): Consonants like “s,” “f,” and “th” which are crucial for speech clarity.
If your hearing loss is mostly in the high frequencies, you might hear people talking but struggle to understand them clearly, especially in noisy places. This is common with age-related hearing loss.
If low frequencies are affected, sounds may seem muffled or you might have trouble hearing deeper voices.
Knowing which frequencies are affected helps your audiologist recommend the best treatment or hearing aid settings.
Taking Action After Your Hearing Test
Once you’ve got your results, what’s next? Here are some practical steps:
Discuss your results with your audiologist. They will explain what your audiogram means and suggest options tailored to your hearing needs.
Consider hearing aids or assistive devices. If your hearing loss affects your daily life, modern hearing aids can make a big difference.
Protect your hearing. Avoid loud noises and use ear protection when needed to prevent further damage.
Schedule regular hearing check-ups. Hearing can change over time, so monitoring is important.
Practice communication strategies. Face the speaker, reduce background noise, and ask for clarification when needed.
If you want to dive deeper into understanding hearing test results, this resource offers clear explanations and tips.
Your Hearing Health Matters
Getting your hearing tested and knowing how to interpret the results is empowering. It’s the first step toward better hearing and improved quality of life. At MD Audiology in Gqeberha, we’re committed to providing personalized, advanced care to help you hear your best. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions or need support on your hearing journey.
Remember, your hearing is worth protecting and nurturing. With the right knowledge and care, you can stay connected to the sounds and people you love.
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