Hearing Loss Frequency Guide
Understanding audiogram frequencies, the speech banana, and what sounds fall within each hearing range. A reference for patients, caregivers, and healthcare students.
The Speech Banana
Speech sounds cluster in a banana-shaped region on an audiogram between 250–8000 Hz and 20–70 dB HL. Green = core speech zone, yellow = edge of speech zone.
Normal
Mild
Moderate
Severe
Profound
Hearing Loss Levels
Normal (–10 to 25 dB)
Can hear whispers, leaves rustling, soft speech. No difficulty with typical conversation.
Mild (26–40 dB)
May miss soft speech or consonants (s, f, th) in noisy environments. Difficulty in groups.
Moderate (41–55 dB)
Misses most normal conversation at 3–5 ft. TV volume must be raised. Hearing aid often recommended.
Moderately Severe (56–70 dB)
Loud speech at close range needed. Misses most conversation without amplification.
Severe (71–90 dB)
Hears shouted speech poorly. Environmental sounds (lawnmower, truck) may be heard.
Profound (91+ dB)
Cannot hear speech. Hears only very loud sounds through vibration. Cochlear implant may be considered.
Frequency Reference
| Frequency | Range | Sounds | Type |
|---|