From the Guidelines
A person's hearing can be accurately described based on their audiogram, which provides a comprehensive overview of their hearing thresholds at different frequencies, as supported by the latest clinical practice guideline on age-related hearing loss 1. To describe a person's hearing based on their audiogram, it is essential to analyze the graph, which typically shows the hearing thresholds at different frequencies, ranging from low to high pitches. The audiogram can provide information about the type and degree of hearing loss, if any is present, including details on which frequencies are affected, whether the loss is conductive, sensorineural, or mixed, and how severe the hearing impairment is in each ear.
According to the clinical practice guideline on age-related hearing loss 1, pure tone audiometry (PTA) is considered the gold standard for detecting hearing loss and is a widely used and reliable tool used to measure hearing sensitivity through 2 pathways, bone conduction and air conduction. PTA establishes the pattern of hearing loss at various frequencies, differentiates the degree (mild, moderate, severe, or profound), and configuration of the hearing loss.
Some key points to consider when interpreting an audiogram include:
- The measurement of pure tone thresholds, speech audiometry, tympanometry, and acoustic reflex testing are essential components of a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation 1.
- PTA can be repeated and compared to previous testing to monitor for changes in hearing loss 1.
- There can be limitations with obtaining PTA, including critical workforce shortages in the United States, and testing variations can influence the results 1.
- Standard diagnostic test-retest variability in adults fluctuates typically by ±5 dB across frequencies 1.
Overall, an audiogram is a crucial tool for describing a person's hearing, and its interpretation should be done by a qualified audiologist or hearing specialist, taking into account the individual's unique hearing profile and medical history 1.
From the Research
Describing a Person's Hearing Based on Their Audiogram
- An audiogram is a graph that shows the results of a hearing test, plotting the softest sounds that a person can hear at different frequencies 2.
- The audiogram can be used to describe a person's hearing loss, including the type and degree of loss, as well as the frequencies that are most affected 2.
- For example, a person with conductive hearing loss may have a flat audiogram, indicating that they have difficulty hearing sounds at all frequencies, while a person with sensorineural hearing loss may have a sloping audiogram, indicating that they have more difficulty hearing high-frequency sounds 3.
- The audiogram can also be used to program hearing aids and other auditory devices, allowing for more effective treatment of hearing loss 2.
Factors That Can Affect Audiogram Results
- Middle-ear effusions, which are common in children, can cause conductive hearing loss and affect audiogram results 4, 3.
- Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) diseases, such as otitis media, can also affect audiogram results and require specialized care 4, 3, 5.
- The accuracy of audiogram results can be affected by the skill and training of the person administering the test, as well as the quality of the equipment used 5.
Using Audiograms to Inform Treatment Decisions
- Audiograms can be used to inform treatment decisions, such as the fitting of hearing aids or the use of other auditory devices 2.
- The results of an audiogram can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and make adjustments as needed 2.
- In some cases, an audiogram may be used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests, such as tympanometry or otoacoustic emission testing, to get a more complete picture of a person's hearing 3.