When a child struggles to follow instructions, confuses words that have very similar sounds, or seems distracted in loud places, parents might wonder if hearing loss is the issue. But in some situations, the problem may not be with the ears at all: It could be a disorder called auditory processing disorder (APD).
Although hearing loss and Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) frequently present with similar signs, they are distinct conditions that require unique assessments and treatments. Below, we’ll break down the main differences to help you support your child’s unique requirements.
Understanding Hearing Impairment: A Definition.
Hearing loss describes a decreased ability to sense sound, usually a result of issues in the outer, middle, or inner ear.
Three key classifications:
- Conductive hearing loss: Happens as a result of blockages or injury in the outer or middle ear, such as ear infections or build-up of earwax
- Sensorineural hearing loss: Occurs when there is damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve, which is typically triggered by factors including aging, exposure to loud noise, or hereditary predisposition
- Combination hearing loss: A mix of both outer/middle ear and inner ear issues
Doctors usually diagnose patients by conducting tests such as audiograms, auditory brainstem response testing (ABR), and acoustic emission testing. If a child has hearing loss, the problem lies in their ability to detect sound in the first place.
What Does Auditory Processing Disorder Mean?
APD, on the other hand, is not a hearing problem; it’s a brain-based problem with interpreting sounds. Children with Auditory Processing Disorder might have normal hearing, but they struggle to decipher and comprehend the sounds they hear.
It’s frequently described as “hearing but not understanding.”
Typical obstacles faced in everyday situations:
- Difficulty understanding and executing verbal directions consisting of numerous steps
- Struggling to differentiate between similar sounds or words
- Struggling in noisy environments (including classrooms or restaurants)
- Misunderstanding jokes, sarcasm, or figurative language
A standard hearing test may indicate no problems because the ears are functioning normally. However, it does not indicate that everything is operating correctly. In APD, the breakdown happens after sound is detected, during processing in the central auditory nervous system.
How Testing and Diagnosis Vary
To diagnose hearing loss, audiologists use traditional hearing exams that measure sound detection. Pinpointing Auditory Processing Disorder involves more extensive evaluations that extend beyond standard hearing evaluations.
Evaluations often involve a multidisciplinary team, including:
- An audiologist to evaluate auditory processing capabilities
- A speech-language pathologist to assess language comprehension and communication
- A psychologist to rule out attention or learning impairments that may look similar to APD
Options for Treatment and Assistance
Treatment approaches 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 usually involves:
- Speech-language therapy
- Classroom accommodations (e.g., seating changes, written directions)
- Environmental modifications to reduce background noise
- Auditory processing therapy
Some Final Thoughts About Hearing Loss vs. APD
It’s essential to distinguish between hearing loss and auditory processing disorder in order to provide your child with the most reliable support and accommodations. If your child seems to struggle with listening but their hearing test is normal, don’t stop there. The real problem might only be pinpointed by more in-depth evaluations. Children with the proper diagnosis and customized treatment approach can succeed academically, in their home environment, and in a variety of other aspects of their lives.
For more information, give us a call.
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.