If a child has difficulty understanding directions, mixes up words with similar enunciations, or seems disoriented in noisy environments, parents may presume that a hearing problem is to blame. But in some situations, the problem may not be with the ears at all: It could be a disorder called auditory processing disorder (APD).
Even though hearing loss and Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) often present with comparable signs, they are distinct conditions that necessitate unique analyses and interventions. Below, we’ll analyze the main differences to help you support your child’s unique requirements.
Understanding Hearing Impairment: A Definition.
Impaired auditory function, also known as hearing loss, takes place when a person’s ability to perceive sound is decreased, often caused by issues impacting the outer, middle, or inner ear.
There are three primary types:
- Conductive hearing loss: Occurs due to blockages or damage in the outer or middle ear, such as ear infections or build-up of earwax
- Sensorineural hearing loss: Consists of damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve, typically caused by aging, noise exposure, or genetics
- Mixed hearing loss: A combination of conductive and sensorineural types
Physicians typically make a diagnosis via standard hearing tests like audiograms, otoacoustic emissions, or auditory brainstem response (ABR) testing. If a child has hearing loss, the problem lies in their ability to sense sound to begin with.
What Does Auditory Processing Disorder Mean?
In contrast, APD is not related to hearing problems, but rather a neurological issue that impacts the brain’s ability to process and understand auditory information. Kids with APD can hear perfectly fine, but they have difficulty making sense of what they hear.
It’s often described as “hearing but not understanding.”
Typical obstacles faced in everyday situations:
- Trouble following multi-step verbal instructions
- Struggling to differentiate between similar sounds or words
- Struggling in noisy environments (like classrooms or restaurants)
- Misunderstanding jokes, sarcasm, or figurative language
A standard hearing exam might indicate no problems because the ears are working normally. In APD, the breakdown occurs after sound is sensed, during processing in the central auditory nervous system.
Differentiating Between Testing and Diagnosis
Audiologists utilize standard auditory evaluations to detect hearing impairments by assessing an individual’s ability to sense sound. Identifying Auditory Processing Disorder involves more in-depth assessments that extend beyond basic hearing evaluations.
Evaluations frequently involve a multidisciplinary team, including:
- An audiologist to assess auditory processing capabilities
- A speech-language pathologist to assess language comprehension and communication
- A psychologist to rule out attention or learning impairments that might look similar to APD
Options for Treatment and Assistance
Treatment options for children with hearing loss diagnosis:
- Hearing aids
- Cochlear implants
- Assistive listening devices
- Medical or surgical interventions
Or, if your child is diagnosed with APD, assistance typically involves:
- Speech-language therapy
- Classroom accommodations (e.g., seating changes, written directions)
- Environmental modifications to reduce background noise
- Auditory processing therapy
APD vs. Hearing Loss: Concluding Thoughts
Understanding the distinction between hearing loss and auditory processing disorder is essential for getting your child the best support. If your child seems to have a hard time listening but their hearing test is normal, don’t stop there. A more detailed look at how they process sound could expose what’s actually happening. Children with the proper diagnosis and customized treatment approach can excel academically, in their home environment, and in a variety of other aspects of their lives.
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Sources:.
About Hearing Loss in Children|Hearing Loss in Children|CDC.
Auditory processing disorder (APD)– Symptoms and causes– Mayo Clinic.
Auditory Processing Disorder vs. Hearing Loss: Key Differences.
Understanding the Differences: Auditory Processing Disorder vs. Hearing Loss|Hearing.
Associates of Las Vegas.
Auditory Processing Disorder (for Parents)|Nemours KidsHealth.