Auditory Processing
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) is a hearing condition that disrupts the way the brain processes sound and can only be diagnosed by an Audiologist. People with auditory processing issues have difficulty understanding speech even though they do not have peripheral hearing loss. While this disorder can affect individuals of all age groups, it is most commonly observed in children, with an estimated prevalence of 2-7% among school-aged children. APD can cause difficulty with learning how to read and write.
APD encompasses various distinct types, each characterized by its own unique set of symptoms. These symptoms can have a significant impact on an individual's life, making it challenging to excel in academic settings, work environments, and social interactions.
Despite ongoing research, the precise cause of APD remains unclear. However, it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Potential contributing factors include brain injuries, premature birth, exposure to lead poisoning, recurrent middle ear infections (otitis media), underlying learning disabilities, and conditions like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
What to Expect
An auditory processing evaluation is a comprehensive assessment that determines how well a person’s brain processes sound. Specific tests used to assess auditory processing disorders vary depending on the person’s age. Prior to your visit, we will provide a phone interview to see if we feel an auditory processing evaluation may be beneficial.
Here's what you can expect during your visit:
Case History: Our audiologists will interview you or the guardian about hearing history, medical history, developmental milestones, and any concerns you have about your hearing or your child’s hearing. This will also include questionnaires for the parent/caregiver and/or patient.
Hearing Test: Before evaluating auditory processing skills, a standard hearing test will be performed to rule out any hearing loss or issues with the peripheral auditory system or to determine if you have normal hearing sensitivity.
Speech Testing: various tests will be performed in quiet and in noise. These tests will show where the patient is having difficulty processing sound.
Results and Consultation: Following the evaluation, the audiologist will go over the general findings, followed by a comprehensive report detailing the areas of auditory processing concern. This report wil be provided within a week following the evaluation. Auditory processing therapy and follow up may be recommended.
For More Information Call: 605-274-8663
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Auditory Processing: $750 - The evaluation visits are typically 2-3 hours and will typically be broken up into two appointments in one day.
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Results Discussion: After the tests are completed, the audiologist will discuss the results with you. They will review the audiogram (unless previously performed) and all other peripheral hearing tests. The specific APD tests will be reviewed and explained. Within one week of the evaluation, a full, written, comprehensive report will be given that will outline the specific areas where difficulty may be noted.
Treatment Options: Depending on your results, the audiologist may discuss treatment options, which could include auditory processing therapy, hearing aids, assistive listening devices, medical referrals, or strategies for communication improvement.
Follow-Up: If auditory processing therapy is recommended, a 12-week outline will be provided to further discuss the therapy sessions.
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There is no cure for APD, but there are a number of treatments that can help people manage their symptoms. Treatment options may include: auditory processing therapy, speech therapy, hearing aids, and accommodating strategies in school and work.
Common APD tests include: Word recognition tests that assess a person’s ability to distinguish between similar sounding words or syllables. Tests to assess the person’s ability to process and remember sounds over time. Tests to assess a person’s ability to listen to and understand two different speech messages that are presented to the person’s ears at the same time.
