An auditory processing disorder (APD) affects how the brain interprets sounds, particularly speech. Despite being able to hear, people with APD are unable to understand what they hear, especially in noisy environments or when multiple people are conversing. In addition to affecting communication, learning, and social interaction, APD can also lead to a disability.
The exact cause of APD is not known, but it may be related to:
Genetic factors
Brain injury or trauma
Stroke
Aging
Ear infections or other ear problems
Exposure to loud noise or ototoxic drugs
Developmental disorders such as autism or ADHD
The symptoms of APD vary from person to person, but they may include:
Difficulty following verbal instructions or directions
Difficulty distinguishing between similar sounds or words
Difficulty remembering or recalling spoken information
Difficulty paying attention or concentrating
Difficulty reading, writing, or spelling
Difficulty learning a new language or musical instrument
Difficulty understanding sarcasm, jokes, or figurative language
Difficulty participating in conversations or group activities
Asking for repetition or clarification frequently
Responding slowly or inappropriately
Feeling frustrated, anxious, or isolated
APD can be diagnosed by an audiologist, a hearing specialist who can perform various tests to assess how the brain processes sounds. These tests may include:
Pure tone audiometry: A test that measures the ability to hear different frequencies and volumes of sounds
Speech audiometry: A test that measures the ability to understand speech in quiet and noisy conditions
Dichotic listening: A test that measures the ability to process different sounds presented to each ear simultaneously
Temporal processing: A test that measures the ability to process the timing and order of sounds
Binaural integration: A test that measures the ability to combine and integrate sounds from both ears
Binaural separation: A test that measures the ability to separate and focus on sounds from one ear while ignoring sounds from the other ear
The diagnosis of APD is based on the results of these tests, as well as the person’s medical history, behavioral observations, and self-reported difficulties.
There is no cure for APD, but there are various strategies and interventions that can help people with APD cope with their hearing challenges and improve their communication and learning skills. These may include:
Environmental modifications: Reducing background noise, improving acoustics, using visual aids, and seating the person close to the speaker or teacher
Assistive devices: Using headphones, amplifiers, FM systems, or hearing aids to enhance the clarity and volume of sounds
Auditory training: Using exercises, games, or software to improve the ability to recognize, discriminate, and remember sounds
Language therapy: Using techniques to enhance the vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension of spoken and written language
Cognitive therapy: Using strategies to improve the attention, memory, and problem-solving skills related to auditory processing
Social skills training: Using role-playing, feedback, and modeling to improve the interpersonal and conversational skills
Self-advocacy: Educating the person, their family, and their teachers or employers about APD and their specific needs and preferences
There is no definitive way to prevent APD, but some possible measures to reduce the risk or severity of APD are:
Avoiding exposure to loud noise or ototoxic drugs that can damage the ears or the brain
Treating ear infections or other ear problems promptly and effectively
Seeking medical attention for any head injury or stroke that may affect the brain
Stimulating the auditory system and the brain with music, language, and other sounds from an early age
Seeking professional help for any signs or symptoms of APD as soon as possible
