An audiogram is a hearing test that shows how well you hear different sounds. The results are plotted on a graph to help your care team understand your hearing levels.
During the test, different pitches are checked, from low sounds to high sounds. The test also measures the softest sound you can hear at each pitch, using decibels.
Signs You May Need a Hearing Test
Hearing loss can happen gradually, so you may not notice it right away.
A hearing test may be helpful if you:
- Turn up the TV more than usual
- Ask people to repeat themselves
- Struggle to follow conversations
- Feel like others are mumbling
- Have trouble hearing in groups or noisy places
Even small changes can affect communication, work, relationships, and daily comfort.
What Happens During the Test
During a hearing test, you usually wear headphones and hold a response button. Each time you hear a tone, even a very faint one, you press the button.
The test checks several pitches, including low, medium, and high sounds. This helps show whether hearing is normal or whether hearing loss is present.
What Bone Conduction Can Show
A full hearing evaluation may include bone conduction testing. This helps identify where hearing loss is happening in the ear.
Bone conduction can help show whether hearing loss is permanent, temporary, or mixed. Temporary hearing loss may be related to fluid or infection, while permanent hearing loss is often related to changes in the inner ear or hearing nerve.
Why Speech Testing Matters
Speech testing is another important part of a hearing evaluation. It helps show how well you understand words at a normal listening level.
These results can help guide next steps. If hearing aids are recommended, speech testing and the audiogram help determine how the devices may be fitted or programmed.
What Happens if Hearing Loss Is Found?
The next steps depend on the type and amount of hearing loss. If hearing loss is mild and communication is still going well, some patients may choose to monitor it.
If hearing loss is affecting daily life, hearing aids may be discussed. Your care team can explain whether you are in the hearing aid range and how hearing aids may help with communication.
How Often Should Hearing Be Checked?
If you have hearing loss, yearly testing is often recommended. Hearing can change slowly, and an annual test helps track changes over time.
For people who wear hearing aids, updated testing can also help keep devices working well. Hearing aids can often be reprogrammed to match your current hearing needs.
Hearing changes can be easy to overlook, especially when they happen slowly. An audiogram can help explain what you are hearing, what you may be missing, and what support could help.