What is the threshold range for normal hearing?

The threshold range for normal hearing is classified as 0 to 20 decibels (dB). This range indicates the softest sounds that an average person with normal hearing can detect across various frequencies. Sounds within this threshold are typically not perceived as being too loud or too soft, allowing individuals to comfortably hear whispers, background conversations, and environmental sounds without strain.

Hearing thresholds above this range suggest varying degrees of hearing loss, starting from slight loss in the 21-40 dB range, which can impair the ability to hear soft sounds and may require some form of amplification or hearing assistance in louder environments. As the threshold increases further beyond 40 dB, the degree of hearing loss intensifies, impacting conversational speech and overall auditory perception. This understanding is crucial for hearing professionals when evaluating audiograms and diagnosing hearing conditions.