The audiogram test is a hearing test result presented as a chart, illustrating your ability to hear sounds at different frequencies and intensities. In simpler terms, it shows how well you hear various high and low-pitched sounds at different volumes.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- Purpose: The primary goal of an audiogram is to identify and quantify any hearing loss a person may have.
- How it Works: During a hearing test, you'll wear headphones and listen to a range of sounds at different frequencies (measured in Hertz, Hz) and intensities (measured in decibels, dB). You indicate when you hear a sound, and these responses are plotted on the audiogram.
- The Audiogram Chart:
- X-axis (Horizontal): Represents frequency or pitch. Lower frequencies are on the left (bass sounds), and higher frequencies are on the right (treble sounds).
- Y-axis (Vertical): Represents intensity or loudness. The top of the chart represents softer sounds, and the bottom represents louder sounds.
- Symbols: Different symbols (e.g., O for right ear, X for left ear) are used to plot the softest sounds you can hear at each frequency.
- Interpreting the Results:
- Normal Hearing: Thresholds (the softest sounds you can hear) are typically between 0 and 25 dB across all frequencies.
- Hearing Loss: Thresholds that fall below the normal range indicate hearing loss. The severity and type of hearing loss can be determined by the pattern of thresholds across different frequencies. For example, hearing loss primarily at high frequencies is common with age-related hearing loss.
Audiograms are vital tools for audiologists to diagnose hearing problems and recommend appropriate solutions, such as hearing aids or other interventions.
