Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)

What Is Auditory Processing Disorder?

Auditory Processing Disorder, also known as APD, is a neurological condition that impacts how the brain interprets and processes sounds. People with APD have normal hearing abilities but struggle to understand and interpret the sounds they hear. It's not a single event but a spectrum of auditory challenges that affect an individual's ability to perceive subtle differences in sounds of words, especially in noisy environments or when processing complex information.

Symptoms of APD

APD symptoms can vary greatly among individuals, but some common signs indicate a possible processing issue. These include difficulty understanding speech in the presence of background noise, problems remembering auditory information, and a consistent delay in responding to auditory instructions. Other symptoms include trouble with reading and spelling, difficulty following oral directions, and problems combining auditory and visual information.

Prevalence and Causes of APD

Estimating the exact prevalence of APD is challenging due to its wide definitions and variable measurement standards across different regions. APD can impact individuals of all ages, but it is most commonly associated with children and older adults. However, research suggests a prevalence rate of 2-3% in the pediatric population, with some estimates going up to 5%. A gender difference has also been noted, with a 2:1 ratio of boys to girls reported.  There is no single cause for APD. Instead, it is associated with several risk factors such as chronic ear infections, premature or traumatic birth history, seizure disorders, head trauma, lead poisoning, and stroke. It's also important to note that APD is often associated with various learning disabilities. Lastly, it's crucial to understand that these are risk factors, not guaranteed causes, and an individual with APD might not have experienced any of these conditions.

The Impact and Diagnosis

APD can significantly affect an individual's quality of life, making communication challenging and often leading to learning difficulties in children and decreased communication in adults due to frustration. It's essential to understand and address this disorder to prevent the social isolation that can result from untreated APD. APD is diagnosed by an audiologist using specialized tests designed to assess the auditory processing capabilities of an individual. These tests measure the individual's ability to process phonemes quickly and accurately, understand speech in competing noise, store orally presented information in the brain, and enable the brain's left and right hemispheres to communicate.

What to Do if You Suspect APD

Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) is a common yet often misunderstood condition that affects many people, from children to adults. If you or a loved one is showing signs of APD, it's crucial to seek professional help. At Victory Hearing and Balance, we strive to provide comprehensive audiological services, including testing and treatment for APD.

APD Treatment in Austin, TX

For those diagnosed with APD, treatment is paramount to improving auditory processing capabilities and overall quality of life. Victory Hearing & Balance is proud to offer specialized treatment options tailored to the needs of individuals with APD. Our 3-month auditory training program, based on the Buffalo Model of APD treatment, is designed to address the unique challenges faced by those with this disorder. This model focuses on enhancing specific auditory skills that are often compromised in individuals with APD. Furthermore, we understand the importance of early intervention, which is why we offer our services to patients as young as 5 years old. With our dedicated approach, we aim to empower our patients, enabling them to navigate their auditory world with increased confidence and capability.