
Auditory threshold
The auditory threshold is the quietest sound that a person can hear at different pitches or frequencies. It varies from person to person and depends on hearing health. Typically measured in decibels (dB), it helps determine hearing sensitivity; the lower the threshold, the more sensitive your hearing. When sounds are quieter than this threshold, they are usually inaudible to the person. Audiologists use this measurement to assess hearing ability and identify any hearing impairments. In essence, the auditory threshold marks the minimum level of sound needed for an individual to perceive auditory stimuli at specific frequencies.