When a child strains to follow instructions, mixes up words that have very similar sounds, or seems distracted in noisy places, parents may wonder if hearing loss is the problem. However, in some circumstances, the problem may not be with the ears themselves, but instead with a condition known as auditory processing disorder (APD), which impacts the way the brain processes sound.
Although hearing loss and Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) often present with comparable signs, they are distinct conditions that necessitate unique analyses and interventions. Below, we’ll analyze the key 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 a person’s ability to perceive sound is diminished, often resulting from problems affecting 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, including ear infections or accumulation 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 genetic predisposition
- Mixed hearing loss: A combination of conductive and sensorineural types
Doctors normally diagnose patients by conducting examinations such as audiograms, auditory brainstem response testing (ABR), and acoustic emission testing. When a child experiences hearing loss, the problem is with their ability to perceive sound at all.
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 perfectly fine, but they have difficulty making sense of what they hear.
It’s often described as “hearing but not understanding.”
Typical challenges faced in everyday situations:
- Trouble understanding and carrying out verbal instructions involving numerous steps
- Trouble distinguishing similar sounds or words
- Struggling in loud environments (including classrooms or restaurants)
- Misunderstanding jokes, sarcasm, or figurative language
Because the ears work normally, a conventional hearing test may come back revealing no issues. But that doesn’t mean everything is functioning as it should. In Auditory Processing Disorder, the problem happens not with hearing the sound itself, but rather with how the brain interprets and processes the sound after it has been sensed.
Distinguishing Between Testing and Diagnosis
Audiologists employ standard auditory assessments to identify hearing impairments by evaluating an individual’s ability to sense sound. Diagnosing APD, on the other hand, requires specialized testing that exceeds 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 hidden attention or learning conditions that might imitate the symptoms of Auditory Processing Disorder (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, support typically 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
Understanding the difference between hearing loss and auditory processing disorder is essential for getting your child the right support. If your child appears to have difficulty with listening despite having a normal hearing test, continue to explore further. The real issue might only be identified by more in-depth evaluations. With the correct diagnosis and tailored treatment plan, kids with either condition can thrive in the classroom, at home, and beyond.
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.