When a child struggles to follow instructions, mixes up words that have very similar sounds, or seems distracted in loud setting, 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 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 evaluations and support. Below, we’ll analyze the main differences to help you support your child’s unique needs.
What is Hearing Loss?
Impaired auditory function, also known as hearing loss, takes place when an individual’s ability to perceive sound is diminished, frequently resulting from problems affecting the outer, middle, or inner ear.
There are three main types:
- Conductive hearing loss: Caused by blockages or damage in the outer or middle ear (like ear infections or wax buildup)
- Sensorineural hearing loss: Involves damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve, often caused by aging, noise exposure, or genetics
- Combination hearing loss: A mix of both outer/middle ear and inner ear problems
Physicians usually make a diagnosis via standard hearing tests like audiograms, otoacoustic emissions, or auditory brainstem response (ABR) 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?
In contrast, APD is not related to hearing difficulties, 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 trouble making sense of what they hear.
It’s often referred to as “perceiving sounds without grasping their meaning.”
Typical obstacles faced in everyday scenarios:
- Difficulty following multi-step verbal directions
- Struggling to distinguish between similar sounds or words
- Having difficulty concentrating in loud settings (such as schools or busy eateries)
- Misunderstanding jokes, sarcasm, or figurative language
A standard hearing exam may reveal no issues because the ears are working normally. But that doesn’t mean all is functioning as it should. In APD, the malfunction happens after sound is sensed, during processing in the central auditory nervous system.
Distinguishing Between Testing and Diagnosis
In order to diagnose hearing loss, audiologists use traditional hearing tests that measure sound detection. Diagnosing APD, however, calls for specialized testing that exceeds detecting sound.
Multidisciplinary teams will typically include:
- A hearing specialist to evaluate how the brain interprets sound
- A specialist in speech and language to evaluate understanding and expression skills
- A psychologist to rule out attention or learning impairments that might look similar to APD
Approaches 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, support usually involves:
- Speech-language therapy
- Classroom accommodations (e.g., seating changes, written directions)
- Environmental modifications to reduce background noise
- Auditory processing therapy
Some Concluding Thoughts About Hearing Loss vs. APD
Understanding the distinction between hearing loss and auditory processing disorder is crucial for getting your child the right support. If your child seems to have a hard time 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.
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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.