Types of Hearing Tests and What Your Audiogram Results Mean

Hearing loss affects millions of people worldwide, yet many delay seeking help until the problem becomes severe. A hearing test is the best way to identify hearing difficulties and determine their cause. 

This guide explains the main types of hearing tests used by audiologists, how to read your audiogram results, and what steps to take after your evaluation. Early detection through proper testing leads to better outcomes and more effective treatment options. 

What is a Hearing Test? 

A hearing test, also known as audiometry, is a clinical evaluation that measures your ability to hear different sounds, frequencies, and volumes. Audiologists use these assessments to identify if hearing loss exists and to determine its type and severity. 

Your doctor will recommend a hearing test if you show signs of hearing difficulty or as part of a routine check-up. Newborns receive hearing screenings shortly after birth, and children undergo periodic checks during growth years. Adults often need testing when they notice changes in hearing or with increasing age. 

Signs You May Need a Hearing Test 

• Difficulty understanding conversations in group settings 
• Frequently asking others to repeat what they said 
• Trouble hearing in noisy environments 
• Ringing or buzzing sounds in the ears 
• Increasing volume on television or mobile devices 

Types of Hearing Tests 

Audiologists use 5 type of hearing tests to evaluate different parts of the hearing system. Each test provides specific information, and together they give a complete picture of your hearing abilities. 

Pure Tone Audiometry 

Pure tone audiometry is the most commonly used hearing test. You sit in a soundproof space wearing headphones while tones at different frequencies and volumes are played. 

You respond when you hear a sound. These responses determine the softest sounds you can hear. The results are plotted on an audiogram and help identify the degree of hearing loss. 

Speech Audiometry 

Speech audiometry evaluates how well you hear and understand spoken words. You are asked to repeat words played at different volumes. 

This test helps assess real-life communication ability and determines how hearing loss affects speech understanding. 

Tympanometry 

Tympanometry measures how the eardrum responds to changes in air pressure. A small probe is placed in the ear canal to assess movement. 

This test helps detect fluid in the ear, eardrum issues, or blockages that affect sound transmission. 

Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) Test 

The OAE hearing test evaluates inner ear function by measuring sound waves produced by the cochlea. Healthy inner ears generate these responses, while damaged ones do not. 

This test is commonly used in newborn screening and early detection of inner ear damage. 

Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) Test 

The ABR test measures how sound signals travel from the ear to the brain. Small electrodes are placed on the scalp to record nerve responses. 

This test is useful for infants or individuals who cannot respond actively or when nerve-related hearing issues are suspected. 

Comparison of Common Hearing Tests 

Test                                                What It Measures                                When It Is Used 

Pure Tone Audiometry                   Hearing thresholds                                Routine evaluation 

Speech Audiometry                       Speech clarity                                         Communication assessment 

Tympanometry                              Middle ear function                                Infection or blockage 

OAE                                                Inner ear response                                  Newborn screening 

ABR                                                Nerve response                                       Infants or neurological concerns 

What is an Audiogram? 

An audiogram is a graphical representation of your hearing test results. It shows how well you hear sounds at different frequencies and intensities. 

The horizontal axis represents pitch, from low to high sounds. The vertical axis represents loudness, measured in decibels. Each ear is plotted separately, helping identify differences in hearing ability. 

How to Read Audiogram Results 

Hearing Level                                        Decibel Range                                     Interpretation 

Normal                                                   0–25 dB                                                 No hearing difficulty 

Mild Loss                                                26–40 dB                                               Difficulty with soft sounds 

Moderate Loss                                       41–55 dB                                               Trouble understanding speech 

Severe Loss                                           71–90 dB                                                Limited hearing ability 

Profound Loss                                      91+ dB                                                    Very little hearing 

How to check your Hearing Test Results? 

Your audiologist analyses results by comparing hearing levels across frequencies and between both ears. They determine whether the hearing loss is conductive, sensorineural, or mixed. 

• Conductive hearing loss relates to problems in the outer or middle ear.  
• Sensorineural loss involves damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve.  
• Mixed hearing loss includes both components. 

These findings guide treatment decisions. The results also help assess how hearing loss affects communication and daily activities. 

What Happens After a Hearing Test? 

• Further tests if the results are unclear 
• Hearing aid recommendation if needed 
• Medical or surgical treatment for underlying conditions 
• Regular follow-up to monitor hearing 

When Should You Get a Hearing Test? 

• Sudden hearing loss 
• Persistent difficulty in conversations 
• Exposure to loud noise over time 
• Age-related changes in hearing 

Conclusion 

We often ignore little things like not seeing properly or hearing properly. However, this ignorance can become dangerous with time. So, it’s important to get your ears checked when you have the slightest doubt about not hearing properly. The results, including audiogram findings, guide appropriate treatment and long-term care. 

If you notice changes in your hearing or struggle with communication, consult specialists at Hinduja Hospital, Khar, for a detailed evaluation and timely management. 

Frequently Ask Questions (FAQs) 

How much is 40% hearing loss? 

40% hearing loss is categorized as mild and ranges from 26 to 40 dB in the hearing loss range. 

Which vitamin is best for hearing? 

Vitamins A, C, and E are known to support hearing health due to their antioxidant properties. These nutrients help protect the delicate cells in the inner ear from damage caused by free radicals. In some cases, adequate intake of these vitamins, along with magnesium, also helps.