Some might expect that changes in hearing always mean hearing loss, but in some cases, the cause is a disorder known as auditory processing disorder (APD). APD is a condition that affects their ability to process information correctly due to a disconnect between what they are hearing and how your brain responds. The condition is most common in children and older adults, with an estimated 5% of school-aged children affected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most who experience APD may not have hearing loss. Studies show that the majority can hear normally in quiet environments; the problem is in the way they process speech and auditory information. Symptoms may range from mild to severe and include difficulty with any of the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
Hearing in noisy environments<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Following conversations<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Following complex or multi-step directions<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Remembering spoken information<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Maintaining focus and attention<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Processing nonverbal information<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Issues organizing at home or work<\/li>\n\n\n\n
Reading and spelling<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Testing for Auditory Processing Disorders<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Our team will run a series of tests to determine if your symptoms are caused by an auditory processing disorder. We will assess for sound localization, processing multiple sounds and the ability to determine the order and duration of sounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To begin the process of diagnosing an Auditory Processing Disorder, schedule an appointment with one of our partner physicians at Ear, Nose, & Throat Specialists of Austin. This initial consultation will include a thorough medical evaluation and a detailed hearing assessment. If it\u2019s determined that you are a candidate for further auditory processing testing, we can arrange this at our Cedar Park office.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Treatment options for APD often include hearing aids but might involve other tasks to help improve brain function and day-to-day activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n