Understanding Your Audiogram: A Patient’s Guide to Hearing Test Results
When you visit an audiologist in Memphis for a hearing evaluation, one of the most important outcomes is your audiogram. This chart is more than just lines and numbers—it’s a picture of how your ears respond to sound. Understanding your audiogram helps you make informed choices about your hearing health and treatment options.
This guide explains what an audiogram shows, how to read your hearing test results, and what they mean for everyday life. We’ll also compare audiogram testing in Memphis clinics to simple retail or pharmacy screenings, so you can see why professional testing matters.
What Is an Audiogram?
An audiogram is a visual record of your hearing ability. It shows how well you hear different pitches (frequencies) and volumes (decibels). During a professional hearing evaluation, your audiologist plays a series of tones through headphones and records the quietest sounds you can hear.
Each ear is tested separately. The right ear is shown with a red circle, and the left ear with a blue X. These markings are plotted on a graph that represents your hearing sensitivity across frequencies.
- Frequency (pitch): Measured in hertz (Hz). The chart moves left to right from low to high tones (250 Hz to 8,000 Hz).
- Intensity (volume): Measured in decibels (dB). The chart moves top to bottom from quiet (0 dB) to loud (120 dB).
The goal is to find your hearing threshold—the softest sounds you can hear at each pitch.
How to Read Your Hearing Test Results
At first glance, an audiogram looks complicated. But once you understand the basic layout, it becomes clear.
Normal Hearing Range
If your markings fall between 0 and 25 decibels, your hearing is considered normal. This means you can hear most everyday sounds without difficulty. Examples include conversation, birds chirping, and traffic noise.
Mild Hearing Loss
A range between 26 and 40 dB indicates mild hearing loss. You may miss soft sounds or struggle to understand speech in noisy places—like a restaurant or church.
Moderate to Severe Hearing Loss
- Moderate (41–55 dB): You may need people to repeat themselves, especially when they speak softly.
- Moderately Severe (56–70 dB): You likely rely on lip reading or visual cues to follow conversation.
- Severe (71–90 dB): Even loud voices are hard to hear. Hearing aids are often necessary.
- Profound (91+ dB): You may only detect very loud sounds or vibrations.
Your audiologist will explain where your results fall and what they mean for communication, work, and daily life.
What Your Audiologist Looks For
An audiogram helps identify the type of hearing loss, which determines the right treatment.
1. Conductive Hearing Loss
This occurs when sound can’t pass through the outer or middle ear effectively. Common causes include:
- Earwax buildup
- Fluid behind the eardrum
- Middle ear infection
- Issues with the ear bones (ossicles)
Conductive hearing loss is often temporary or treatable with medication, surgery, or ear cleaning.
2. Sensorineural Hearing Loss
This type involves the inner ear or auditory nerve. It’s usually permanent and caused by:
- Aging
- Noise exposure
- Genetic conditions
- Certain medications
Most patients with this type benefit from hearing aids or advanced hearing technology.
3. Mixed Hearing Loss
This combines both types. Treatment may include a combination of medical care and amplification devices.
Why Professional Audiogram Testing in Memphis Matters
In today’s world, you can find quick “hearing checks” at retail stores, pharmacies, or even online. While these tools can raise awareness, they don’t replace professional audiogram testing.
Accuracy and Detail
Retail screenings typically measure only a few frequencies and rely on self-reported results.
A licensed audiologist uses calibrated equipment in a sound-treated room for accurate measurements across all frequencies.
Customized Care
Professional testing includes:
- Air and bone conduction tests to determine where hearing loss occurs
- Speech audiometry to measure understanding in real-world conditions
- Tympanometry to check eardrum and middle ear function
These results help create a personalized hearing plan that retail kiosks can’t provide.
Local Advantage in Memphis
Memphis clinics like Professional Audiological Services offer complete hearing evaluations in a comfortable, family-friendly environment. With experienced audiologists and advanced technology, patients receive accurate diagnoses and follow-up care tailored to their needs.
Community connections also matter—local providers can coordinate with ENT specialists, schools, and senior centers in the Mid-South region to ensure ongoing hearing support.
What Happens During Your Hearing Evaluation
Many people feel nervous about their first hearing test. Knowing what to expect helps reduce anxiety and ensures better results.
- History Review: Your audiologist will discuss your hearing concerns, medical history, and lifestyle.
- Ear Exam: They’ll look inside your ears with an otoscope to check for wax or infection.
- Hearing Test: You’ll wear headphones and respond to various tones and words.
- Speech Understanding: You may repeat words or phrases played at different volumes.
- Results Discussion: The audiologist reviews your audiogram, explains your hearing levels, and discusses treatment options.
The entire visit usually lasts less than an hour.
Real-Life Examples: Hearing Loss and Everyday Sounds
Understanding the decibel scale can help you relate test results to real-world hearing.
| Sound Source | Approx. dB Level | What You Might Miss |
| Leaves rustling | 20 | Soft, high-pitched tones |
| Normal conversation | 60 | Speech clarity in groups |
| Vacuum cleaner | 75 | Mid-range speech tones |
| City traffic | 85 | Hearing safety risk over time |
| Rock concert | 110 | Potential hearing damage |
Even moderate hearing loss can make voices sound muffled, while high-frequency loss can make it difficult to hear consonants like s, t, or f.
How Hearing Test Results Inform Treatment
After your audiogram, your audiologist will recommend the best way to improve your hearing.
1. Hearing Aids
Modern devices, such as Starkey Livio AI or rechargeable hearing aids, do more than amplify sound. Many connect to smartphones and track brain and body health.
2. Hearing Protection
For musicians, veterans, or factory workers in Memphis, custom hearing protection can prevent further loss while maintaining sound clarity.
3. Ongoing Monitoring
Hearing changes over time. Annual audiogram testing ensures your hearing aids or treatment plan continue to meet your needs.
The Connection Between Hearing and Overall Health
Recent studies show that untreated hearing loss can affect more than communication. It’s linked to cognitive decline, social isolation, and even balance problems. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), adults with untreated hearing loss may face up to a 30–40% faster decline in cognitive abilities than those who use hearing aids.
Addressing hearing loss early can:
- Improve focus and memory
- Reduce fatigue
- Strengthen relationships
- Enhance safety when driving or walking
A professional hearing evaluation is not just about your ears—it’s about your overall health and confidence.
Local Hearing Resources in Memphis
If you live in the Mid-South area, several community resources support better hearing health:
- Professional Audiological Services (Bartlett, TN): Comprehensive testing, on-site repairs, and family-friendly care.
- Memphis Speech and Hearing Center: Offers therapy and hearing services for children.
- Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital Audiology Department: Pediatric-focused care.
- Mid-South Veterans Association: Provides hearing assistance programs for eligible veterans.
Using these local options ensures you receive personalized, accessible, and ongoing support.
Common Questions About Audiograms
Do I need a referral for an audiogram in Memphis?
Most clinics, including Professional Audiological Services, accept self-referrals. You can schedule an appointment directly.
How often should I get my hearing tested?
Adults should schedule a hearing test every year after age 50—or sooner if they notice difficulty hearing conversations or television.
Is the test painful or uncomfortable?
Not at all. The test is non-invasive and takes place in a quiet, comfortable sound booth.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes. Bringing a friend or family member can help you feel at ease and provide another perspective during the consultation.
Comparing Professional Audiogram Testing vs. Retail Screenings
| Feature | Professional Clinic (Memphis) | Retail or Pharmacy Screening |
| Accuracy | Full-frequency, calibrated testing | Limited tones, self-reported results |
| Environment | Soundproof room | Noisy retail space |
| Evaluation | Licensed audiologist interprets data | Automated or staff-led summary |
| Recommendations | Custom hearing plan, device fitting | Generic “see a specialist” advice |
| Follow-Up | Ongoing care, repairs, counseling | None |
Professional audiogram testing ensures your results are accurate and actionable, leading to better long-term hearing outcomes.
Taking the Next Step
If your audiogram shows hearing loss, your audiologist will guide you through the next steps, which may include:
- Selecting hearing aids that fit your lifestyle and budget
- Scheduling follow-up visits for adjustments
- Learning hearing strategies for noisy environments
Remember, hearing health is a journey. The earlier you begin, the easier it is to maintain clear communication and confidence in daily life.
Understanding Your Hearing, Improving Your Life
Your audiogram is the roadmap to better hearing. It shows where your challenges lie and how an audiologist can help you reconnect with the sounds that matter most—family voices, laughter, music, and conversation.
Audiogram testing in Memphis offers accurate, personalized results that online or retail screenings can’t match. With the right professional care, you can protect your hearing and enjoy a richer quality of life for years to come.
If you or a loved one are experiencing hearing changes, don’t wait. Schedule a comprehensive hearing evaluation with Professional Audiological Services in Memphis today.
Visit www.professionalaudiologicalservices.com or call (901) 372-0040 to book your appointment and start your journey toward better hearing.
