How to Read an Audiogram
The Federation's bylaws now indicate that hearing loss in the 500, 1000 and 2000 Hertz (Hz) range, AVERAGED, is the criteria to determine whether the athlete meets the 55 decibels (dB) loss or more in the better ear, as required by the International Committee of Sports for the Deaf.
On audiograms, look at the symbols "O" which represents the right ear and "X" which represents the left ear. Ignore the 125, 150, 4000 and 8000 Hz ranges. Concentrate on the 500, 1000 and 2000 Hz ranges only.
Let's look at the audiograms of three fictional Deaflympic athletes:
Holly's Audiogram
Holly Hearing's loss in the right ear (O) is 10 dB, 10 dB and 5 dB respectively. This is an average of 8 dB. Her loss in the left ear (X) is 15 dB, 5 dB and 10 dB which is an average of 10 dB. Her better ear is the left ear. She does not meet the requirement of 55 dB loss or more in the better ear.
Betty's Audiogram
Betty Borderline's loss in the right ear (O) is 90 dB, 100 dB and 110 dB respectively. This is an average of 100 dB. Her loss in the left ear (X) is 50 dB, 55 dB and 60 dB, which is an average of 55 dB. Her better ear is the left ear. She meets the requirement of 55 dB loss or more in the better ear. It is borderline, and may be open to retesting. Any loss up to 70dB may be subject to retesting.
Doris' Audiogram
Doris Deaf's loss in the right ear (O) is 95 dB, 100 dB and 110 dB respectively. This is an average of 102 dB. Her loss in the left ear (X) is 90 dB, 110 dB, 120 dB respectively, This is an average of 107 dB. Her better ear is the left ear. She meets the requirement of 55 dB loss or more in the better ear without question.
Where Can I Get an Official ICSD Audiogram Form?
Click here for the official ICSD audiogram form and then print it on your printer.
