An audiogram is a graph that shows how well you hear different pitches, called frequencies, at different volumes, called intensity or loudness. It is the main tool an audiologist uses to understand your hearing. Along the bottom of the graph are the low to high pitches, usually from 250 to 8000 Hertz. Up the side are the loudness levels in decibels, from soft sounds at the top to loud sounds at the bottom. Your results are plotted as marks on the graph, with one set of marks for the right ear and another for the left. The further down the marks sit, the louder a sound must be before you can hear it, which means the greater your hearing loss at that pitch.

One of the most common questions is what the symbols on the graph mean. Circles usually stand for the right ear and crosses for the left, while other symbols such as triangles or squares show results when the ears are tested with a bone conductor. Another common question is what counts as normal hearing. In general, thresholds up to about 20 decibels are considered normal across most frequencies. A second frequent question is whether an audiogram shows the cause of hearing loss. It does not. The audiogram shows the pattern and degree of loss, but other tests and a medical examination are needed to work out why the loss has happened.

Degrees of hearing loss are usually described in bands based on the average threshold across the speech frequencies. Normal hearing is up to about 20 decibels. Mild hearing loss runs from about 21 to 40 decibels, and people may struggle with soft speech or in background noise. Moderate loss is about 41 to 55 decibels, where conversation at normal volume becomes difficult. Moderately severe loss is about 56 to 70 decibels, and loud speech is often needed. Severe loss is about 71 to 90 decibels, where only very loud speech is heard and hearing aids are usually essential. Profound loss is above 90 decibels, and even very loud sounds may not be heard clearly.

People also ask about the shape of the line on the graph. A line that slopes downward toward the higher pitches is common in age related hearing loss, while a flat line suggests similar loss across pitches. A dip at particular frequencies can point to noise damage. Another frequent question is whether the audiogram alone decides treatment. It does not, because your needs, lifestyle and speech understanding all matter. Finally, many people ask how often they should have a new test. If your hearing changes or you notice new difficulty, a repeat test is sensible, and regular checks are often advised for anyone already using hearing aids.

A closer look is at a band director’s notes.