When a child struggles to follow instructions, mixes up words that have very similar sounds, or seems distracted in loud setting, parents might question 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).
Hearing loss and APD share many of the same symptoms, but they’re really very different conditions that require specific assessments and support. Below, we’ll break down the key differences to help you support your child’s distinct requirements.
What is Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss describes a reduced ability to detect sound, often a result of problems in the outer, middle, or inner ear.
There are three primary kinds:
- Conductive hearing loss: Caused by obstructions or damage in the outer or middle ear (including ear infections or wax accumulation)
- Sensorineural hearing loss: Involves damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve, typically caused by aging, noise exposure, or genetics
- Mixed hearing loss: A mix of conductive and sensorineural types
Doctors normally diagnose patients by carrying out tests including audiograms, auditory brainstem response testing (ABR), and acoustic emission testing. When a child experiences hearing loss, the issue is with their ability to perceive sound at all.
What Does Auditory Processing Disorder Mean?
In contrast, APD is not associated with hearing difficulties, but rather a neurological issue that affects 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.”
Some common challenges include:
- Trouble understanding and carrying out verbal directions involving multiple steps
- Trouble distinguishing similar sounds or words
- Struggling in loud settings (like classrooms or restaurants)
- Misunderstanding jokes, sarcasm, or figurative language
Because the ears are working normally, a conventional hearing test may come back showing no issues. In APD, the breakdown happens after sound is detected, during processing in the central auditory nervous system.
How Testing and Diagnosis Differ
Audiologists employ standard auditory evaluations to identify hearing impairments by evaluating an individual’s ability to sense sound. Pinpointing Auditory Processing Disorder involves more extensive evaluations 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 differences that might appear similar to APD
Treatment and Support Solutions
Treatment options for children with hearing loss diagnosis:
- Hearing aids
- Cochlear implants
- Assistive listening devices
- Medical or surgical interventions
Support for Children with APD Diagnosis Usually Includes:
- Speech-language therapy
- Classroom accommodations (e.g., seating changes, written instructions)
- Environmental modifications to reduce background noise
- Auditory processing therapy
Some Final Thoughts About Hearing Loss vs. APD
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. The real issue may only be pinpointed by more in-depth assessments. With the correct diagnosis and individualized treatment plan, children with either condition can do well in the classroom, at home, and beyond.
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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.
