If a child has trouble understanding instructions, mixes up words with similar enunciations, or seems disoriented in loud environments, parents might presume that a hearing problem is to blame. However, in certain instances, the problem might not lie with the ears themselves, but rather with a condition known as auditory processing disorder (APD), which impacts the way the brain deals with sound.

Even though hearing loss and Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) frequently present with similar signs, they are distinct conditions that require unique analyses and interventions. In this article, we will explore the key differences to help you give your child the support they require.

What is Hearing Loss?

Hearing loss describes a decreased ability to sense sound, often caused by issues in the outer, middle, or inner ear.

There are three main types:

• Conductive hearing loss: Caused by obstructions or damage in the outer or middle ear (including ear infections or wax buildup)
• Sensorineural hearing loss: Occurs when there is damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve, which is typically triggered by variables including aging, exposure to loud noise, or hereditary predisposition
• Combination hearing loss: A blend of both outer/middle ear and inner ear problems

Physicians usually make a diagnosis via standard hearing assessments like audiograms, otoacoustic emissions, or auditory brainstem response (ABR) testing. When a child experiences hearing loss, the issue is with their ability to perceive sound at all.

What Is Auditory Processing Disorder?

In contrast, APD is not associated with hearing difficulties, but instead a neurological issue that affects the brain’s ability to process and understand auditory information. Children with Auditory Processing Disorder might have normal hearing, but they struggle to decipher and comprehend the sounds they hear.
It’s often referred to as “perceiving sounds without grasping their meaning.”

Some common challenges include:

• Trouble understanding and executing verbal directions involving numerous steps
• Struggling to distinguish between similar sounds or words
• Struggling in noisy environments (like classrooms or restaurants)
• Misinterpreting jokes, sarcasm, or figurative language

Because the ears are working normally, a conventional hearing test might come back showing no issues. But that doesn’t mean all is working as it should. In APD, the malfunction occurs after sound is sensed, during processing in the central auditory nervous system.

Differentiating Between Testing and Diagnosis

Audiologists utilize standard auditory assessments to detect hearing impairments by evaluating an individual’s ability to perceive sound. Diagnosing APD, on the other hand, calls for specialized testing that exceeds detecting sound.

Multidisciplinary teams will typically include:

• An audiologist to evaluate auditory processing abilities
• A speech-language pathologist to evaluate language comprehension and communication
• A psychologist should be consulted to determine any underlying attention or learning conditions 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

Assistance for Children with APD Diagnosis Typically Includes:

• Speech-language therapy
• Classroom accommodations (e.g., seating changes, written instructions)
• Environmental modifications to reduce background noise
• Auditory processing therapy

APD vs. Hearing Loss: Final Thoughts

It’s essential to differentiate between hearing loss and auditory processing disorder in order to provide your child with the most effective assistance and accommodations. If your child seems to struggle with listening but their hearing test is normal, don’t stop there. The real problem may only be pinpointed by more in-depth evaluations. Children with the appropriate diagnosis and personalized treatment strategy can succeed academically, in their home environment, and in various 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.