When a child struggles to follow directions, mixes up words that have very similar sounds, or seems distracted in loud places, parents might wonder if hearing loss is the problem. But in some situations, the problem might not be with the ears at all: It could be a condition called auditory processing disorder (APD).
Hearing loss and APD have many of the same symptoms, but they’re really very different conditions that demand distinct evaluations and assistance. Below, we’ll analyze the main differences to help you support your child’s distinct needs.
What is Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss refers to a decreased ability to detect sound, usually caused by issues in the outer, middle, or inner ear.
There are three main types:
- Conductive hearing loss: Happens as a result of obstructions or damage in the outer or middle ear, including ear infections or build-up of earwax
- Sensorineural hearing loss: Involves damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve, often caused by aging, noise exposure, or genetics
- Mixed hearing loss: A mix of conductive and sensorineural types
Doctors normally diagnose patients by carrying out examinations 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 in the first place.
What Is Auditory Processing Disorder?
APD, on the other hand, is not a hearing problem; it’s a brain-based issue with deciphering sounds. Kids with APD can hear just fine, but they have difficulty making sense of what they hear.
It’s frequently described as “hearing but not understanding.”
Some common challenges include:
- Trouble following multi-step verbal instructions
- Trouble differentiating similar sounds or words
- Struggling in loud settings (like classrooms or restaurants)
- Misinterpreting jokes, sarcasm, or figurative language
A basic hearing test might indicate no problems because the ears are working normally. However, it does not mean that everything is operating correctly. In APD, the malfunction occurs after sound is detected, during processing in the central auditory nervous system.
Distinguishing Between Testing and Diagnosis
To diagnose hearing loss, audiologists use conventional hearing tests that assess sound detection. Diagnosing APD, however, requires specialized testing that goes beyond detecting sound.
Multidisciplinary teams will typically include:
- An audiologist to assess auditory processing abilities
- A specialist in speech and language to assess understanding and expression skills
- A psychologist should be consulted to determine any underlying attention or learning disorders that might imitate the symptoms of Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
Treatment and Support Solutions
If your child is diagnosed with hearing loss, treatment may include:
- Hearing aids
- Cochlear implants
- Assistive listening devices
- Medical or surgical interventions
Or, if your child is diagnosed with APD, support usually 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: Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between hearing loss and auditory processing disorder is crucial for getting your child the right help. If your child appears to have difficulty with listening despite having a normal hearing test, continue to explore further. The real problem may only be pinpointed by more in-depth evaluations. With the right diagnosis and individualized treatment plan, kids with either condition can thrive 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.