How to Read a Hearing Test Score

An audiogram displays the results of a hearing test. It shows the quietest sounds, or thresholds, that an individual can detect at different frequencies, or pitches. The graph displays frequency of sounds, expressed in Hertz, on the x-axis. The y-axis displays intensity or loudness, which is expressed in decibels (dB). If trying to read your audiogram before the doctor enters the room and explains it to you, pay attention to the position of your scores, which indicate the strength of your hearing.

Things You'll Need

• Audiogram

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Instructions

• 1

  Locate the "X" and "O" symbols on the audiogram. An X typically represents a score for the left ear, and an O represents a score for the right ear. Some audiograms represent the left and right ear thresholds with squares and circles, respectively.

• 2

  Identify the range in which the thresholds fall. The normal hearing range is zero to 20 dB, which is on the vertical access. If the thresholds fall outside of this range, you have hearing loss. The lower the thresholds are on the audiogram, the worse the hearing loss is. See the Resources for a detailed explanation of the level of hearing loss represented by results measuring 20 dB or greater.

• 3

  Keep in mind that the thresholds are not always identical for each ear at each frequency. This can be the case even in patients with normal hearing.

• 4

  Speak to an audiologist if you require additional clarification regarding the results of your hearing test.