When a child struggles to follow directions, mixes up words that have very similar sounds, or seems distracted in loud setting, parents might question if hearing loss is the problem. However, in some circumstances, the problem may not be with the ears themselves, but instead with a condition called auditory processing disorder (APD), which affects the way the brain deals with sound.
Hearing loss and APD have several of the same symptoms, but they’re really very different conditions that require distinct assessments and support. Below, we’ll analyze the main differences to help you support your child’s unique requirements.
Understanding Hearing Loss: A Definition.
Hearing loss describes a reduced ability to detect sound, often a result of issues in the outer, middle, or inner ear.
Three primary classifications:
- Conductive hearing loss: Occurs due to obstructions or injury in the outer or middle ear, such as ear infections or accumulation of earwax
- Sensorineural hearing loss: Consists of damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve, often due to aging, noise exposure, or genetics
- Mixed hearing loss: A mix of conductive and sensorineural types
Doctors usually diagnose patients by carrying out tests such as audiograms, auditory brainstem response testing (ABR), and acoustic emission testing. If a child suffers from hearing loss, the problem lies in their ability to sense sound to begin with.
What Is Auditory Processing Disorder?
APD, on the other hand, is not a hearing problem; it’s a brain-based problem with deciphering sounds. Children with Auditory Processing Disorder might have normal hearing, but they struggle to interpret and comprehend the sounds they hear.
It’s commonly referred to as “perceiving sounds without grasping their meaning.”
Typical obstacles faced in everyday scenarios:
- Trouble understanding and executing verbal instructions involving multiple steps
- Struggling to differentiate between similar sounds or words
- Struggling in noisy settings (including classrooms or restaurants)
- Misunderstanding jokes, sarcasm, or figurative language
Because the ears are working normally, a standard hearing test might come back showing no issues. However, it does not mean that everything is operating correctly. In Auditory Processing Disorder, the problem happens not with hearing the sound itself, but instead with how the brain interprets and processes the sound after it has been sensed.
Differentiating Between Testing and Diagnosis
To diagnose hearing loss, audiologists use traditional hearing tests that measure sound detection. Diagnosing APD, on the other hand, requires specialized testing that exceeds detecting sound.
Evaluations frequently involve a multidisciplinary team, including:
- An audiologist to evaluate auditory processing capabilities
- A speech-language pathologist to assess language comprehension and communication
- A psychologist should be consulted to identify any underlying attention or learning disorders that may imitate the symptoms of Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
Treatment and Support Options
Treatment approaches for children with hearing loss diagnosis:
- Hearing aids
- Cochlear implants
- Assistive listening devices
- Medical or surgical interventions
Assistance for Children with APD Diagnosis Usually Includes:
- Speech-language therapy
- Classroom accommodations (e.g., seating changes, written directions)
- Environmental modifications to reduce background noise
- Auditory processing therapy
APD vs. Hearing Loss: Final Thoughts
Understanding the distinction between hearing loss and auditory processing disorder is crucial for getting your child the right help. If your child seems to have a hard time listening but their hearing test is normal, don’t stop there. A deeper look at how they process sound could reveal what’s really happening. Children with the appropriate diagnosis and personalized 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.