Understanding your child's audiogram is essential for gaining insights into their hearing health and making informed decisions about support and intervention.[1][2][10]
What Is an Audiogram?
An audiogram is a graph that represents the results of a child's hearing test. The chart shows the softest sounds your child can hear at different frequencies (pitches), with the x-axis indicating frequency in Hertz (Hz) and the y-axis displaying loudness in decibels (dB). Audiograms are used by audiologists to measure hearing thresholds and identify the degree and type of hearing loss, such as mild, moderate, severe, or profound loss.[2][4][5][6][7][10]
Interpreting the Numbers and Symbols
- **Frequency (Pitch):** Displayed across the top (x-axis), ranging typically from 250 Hz (low pitch) to 8000 Hz (high pitch).[7][2]
- **Loudness (Intensity):** Shown on the left (y-axis), ranging from very soft to very loud sounds.[3][1]
- **Symbols:** Marks on the audiogram represent the quietest sounds your child detects for each frequency. Different symbols indicate which ear was tested and whether air or bone conduction was used.[5][7]
- **Degree of Loss:** The placement of these marks reveals whether hearing is normal - Types of Hearing Loss and Patterns
Audiograms help differentiate between conductive, sensorineural, and mixed hearing loss. The pattern of hearing loss (sloping, flat, or rising) and whether it’s symmetrical or differences exist between ears are important details. Some audiograms may show specific shapes, like a "cookie bite" or a "speech banana," indicating which speech sounds are harder to hear.[3][4][5]
Using the Audiogram in Daily Life
Parents and caregivers can use the audiogram to guide educational adaptations at school and determine if hearing aids or other interventions are necessary. Even mild hearing losses can impact speech clarity and communication, emphasizing the need for tailored support based on the unique audiogram results.[10][2][5]
Your Role
After receiving your child’s audiogram, ask your audiologist for a clear explanation and request a copy for your records. Understanding what the chart reveals enables you to monitor changes over time and advocate effectively for your child's needs.[9][5]
By decoding your child's audiogram, you play a central role in supporting their hearing and communication journey.[1][2][5]
[1](https://www.childrensmn.org/services/care-specialties-departments/ear-nose-throat-ent-facial-plastic-surgery/conditions-and-services/audiogram/)
[2](https://www.perkins.org/understanding-your-childs-audiogram/)
[3](https://iowaprotocols.medicine.uiowa.edu/protocols/how-read-audiogram)
[4](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK578179/)
[5](https://www.healthyhearing.com/report/52516-The-abc-s-of-audiograms)
[6](https://childrensent-edinburgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/understanding_your_childs_hearing_tests-5.pdf)
[7](https://geekymedics.com/audiogram-interpretation/)
[8](https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2013/0101/p41.html)
[9](https://www.infanthearing.org/coordinator_toolkit/section3/10_asha_guidelines.pdf)
[10](https://www.bcchildrens.ca/clinics-services/audiology/how-read-audiogram)