Also known as APD, an auditory processing disorder is hearing loss caused by something that affects the part of the brain that processes how you hear. To diagnose this condition, your audiologist may perform the following tests to determine what happens when you hear sounds.
Tympanometry
This exam can determine how well your eardrum moves. Your audiologist will place a small probe in your ear canal and send in gentle air pressure. The probe then measures how much the ear drum moves.
Acoustic Reflex Test
This test allows your audiologist to see what happens in your ear when you hear a loud sound.
Auditory Brainstem Response
This shows how well your inner ear and brain pathways for hearing are working. During the test, your audiologist will put sensors around your ear and on your head. The sensors are connected to a computer, which records how your nerves respond to sounds.
Evoked Potential Test
This exam shows how well sound can travel along the nerves between the ears and the brain and if anything is blocking these nerves. Sensors are placed on your head and are connected to a computer, which plays short clicking sounds.
How APD Is Treated
Every patient has specific needs, and each treatment plan for APD is unique. Options may include hearing aids, auditory training or lifestyle and home remedies. Your audiologist will support you through treatment that opens a world of new sounds for you.
Call Ascentist Audiology & Vestibular Clinic for more information or to schedule an appointment.
