Nuheara : The Human Hearing Frequency Range and Audible Sounds

Audiologists measure sound by decibels and frequency. The term decibels refer to the intensity of a sound such as high or low. A normal human hearing range typically falls between 0 to 140 decibels.

However, people should avoid prolonged exposure to sounds above 80 decibels since that noise level can damage hearing. Common examples of noises above this range include ambulance sirens, fireworks, and tractors. (Learn more about noise-induced hearing loss here)

Mild hearing loss exists when people struggle to hear sounds between 30 to 40 decibels or cannot hear them at all. People whose hearing ability falls into the 50 to 70 decibel range have moderate hearing loss.

How Mild-to-Moderate Hearing Loss Impacts Conversation

Most speech sounds range from 30 to 70 decibels, the exact human hearing frequency range that describes mild-to-moderate hearing loss. People whose hearing ability has fallen to this range can go undiagnosed for several years, causing them to become more frustrated and isolated in the meantime.

Hearing conversation clearly can be challenging, especially when background noise is present at the same time. Many people with symptoms of mild-to-moderate hearing challenges do not realize they are experiencing the early signs of hearing loss. Others are simply in denial.

Unfortunately, they are likely to lose more hearing ability the longer they go without seeking help. Countries that lack affordable hearing options where hearing aids are not covered by insurance see the highest rates of this issue.

What is the Frequency Range of Human Hearing?

Hertz, which is another name for sound frequency, describes the pitch of a sound. Low numbers represent low sounds while high numbers represent high sounds.

The sounds people take in every day generally range from 250 to 6,000 hertz. However, people without hearing loss can hear and process sounds from 20 to 20,000 hertz.