Understanding your audiogram is one of the most important steps before buying hearing aids. An audiogram is a chart that shows how well you hear different sounds, and knowing how to read it can help you decide whether over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids or prescription devices are right for you.
In this guide, we’ll break down audiograms in simple terms, explain what each part means, and show you how to connect the results to your hearing aid choices. By the end, you’ll feel confident reading your results and making an informed decision.
What Is an Audiogram?
An audiogram is the visual result of a hearing test performed by an audiologist or hearing specialist. The test measures the quietest sounds you can hear at different pitches and records them on a graph.
- Horizontal axis (X-axis): Represents frequency (pitch of sound), measured in Hertz (Hz). Low pitches, like a drumbeat, appear on the left (250 Hz), while high pitches, like birds chirping, appear on the right (8000 Hz).
-
Vertical axis (Y-axis): Represents loudness, measured in decibels (dB HL). The higher the number, the louder the sound must be for you to hear it.
This simple graph gives a complete snapshot of your hearing ability.
Understanding the Symbols
When you look at your audiogram, you’ll see different symbols plotted on the graph.
- O (red): Right ear hearing thresholds
- X (blue): Left ear hearing thresholds
-
Triangles, squares, or brackets: May indicate bone conduction tests or special conditions
These markings create a “curve” showing the softest sounds you can hear at each pitch.
Degrees of Hearing Loss
Here’s a simple table to help you interpret your audiogram results:
|
Degree of Hearing Loss |
Range (dB HL) |
Typical Experience |
|
Normal hearing |
0–25 dB HL |
Able to hear whispers, soft speech, and faint sounds clearly. |
|
Mild loss |
26–40 dB HL |
May miss soft sounds, difficulty hearing in noisy places. |
|
Moderate loss |
41–55 dB HL |
Conversations sound muffled, need higher TV volume. |
|
Moderately severe |
56–70 dB HL |
Significant difficulty understanding speech without amplification. |
|
Severe loss |
71–90 dB HL |
Can only hear loud voices or sounds; communication is very difficult without aids. |
|
Profound loss |
91+ dB HL |
May only perceive very loud sounds or vibrations. |
This table makes it easier to match your audiogram numbers with your real-life hearing challenges.
Common Audiogram Patterns
Different patterns of hearing loss affect how you experience conversations and sounds:
- High-frequency loss: The most common, often caused by age or noise exposure. You may hear vowels well but miss consonants like s, f, th.
- Low-frequency loss: Less common. Voices may sound muffled, and background noise may be harder to separate.
- Flat loss: Equal hearing loss across all frequencies. Everything sounds equally softer.
-
Noise notch: A dip around 4000 Hz, usually linked to noise-induced hearing damage.
Recognizing your pattern helps you match the right hearing aid features. The FDA says understanding your audiogram helps you choose the right hearing aid safely and effectively, especially OTC ones.
How This Connects to Hearing Aid Choices
Your audiogram acts like a map for hearing aid selection:
-
Mild to Moderate Loss (26–55 dB HL): OTC hearing aids may be suitable. These are designed to make everyday conversations clearer without needing a prescription.
-
Severe to Profound Loss (70+ dB HL): Prescription hearing aids fitted by an audiologist are usually necessary.
-
Frequency Needs: If you mainly have high-frequency loss, look for hearing aids with speech-clarity features.
-
Symmetry: If one ear is worse than the other, you may need adjustments for each ear separately.
Practical Steps to Read Your Audiogram
-
Find your thresholds: Look at where the O’s and X’s fall on the graph.
-
Check the severity: See which category your hearing falls into at different pitches.
-
Notice the pattern: Is your hearing loss sloping, flat, or notched?
-
Match to products: Compare your thresholds to the fitting range of the hearing aids you’re considering.
For example, Nebroo Hearing Aids are pre-programmed for mild to moderate hearing loss (26–55 dB HL). If your audiogram fits this range, they may be a good solution.
Why Reading Your Audiogram Matters Before Buying
Many people buy hearing aids without understanding their hearing profile. This often leads to frustration or poor results. Reading your audiogram ensures:
-
You choose the right type of hearing aid (OTC vs. prescription).
-
You avoid overspending on features you don’t need.
-
You focus on the sounds and situations that matter most.
In short, your audiogram is your guide to smarter hearing aid shopping.
FAQs
1. Do I need an audiologist to interpret my audiogram?
Not always. While an audiologist provides the most accurate guidance, understanding the basics can help you make informed choices, especially if you’re considering OTC hearing aids.
2. Can I buy hearing aids without an audiogram?
Yes, but it’s not recommended. An audiogram ensures you buy the right device for your type of loss. OTC hearing aids are meant for mild-to-moderate hearing loss, which is confirmed through an audiogram.
3. What if my audiogram shows severe hearing loss?
In that case, OTC hearing aids may not be effective. You should consult a licensed audiologist for prescription options.
4. How often should I get my hearing tested?
For adults over 50, a test every 1–2 years is recommended, or sooner if you notice changes in your hearing.
5. Are all audiograms the same?
Yes, the format is standardized, though symbols may vary slightly depending on the test.
Key Takeaways
-
An audiogram shows your hearing ability across different pitches and volumes.
-
Symbols represent each ear and create a curve of your thresholds.
-
The degree and pattern of loss determine whether OTC or prescription hearing aids are right for you.
-
Reading your audiogram before buying ensures better results, value, and satisfaction.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider or audiologist for personalized guidance on your hearing health. Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids are intended for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. They are not suitable for children or for individuals with severe or profound hearing loss.