What is Auditory processing disorder (APD), a neurological condition also known as central auditory processing disorder (CAPD), affects the brain’s ability to process auditory input, making it difficult to understand speech, follow oral instructions, or distinguish speech in noisy environments. It is the inability to understand spoken language in a meaningful way in the absence of what is commonly considered a hearing loss.

Common APD Symptoms:

✔ Difficulty following verbal directions
✔ Trouble distinguishing similar sounds (e.g., “cat” vs. “hat”)
✔ Poor listening skills, especially in noisy environments
✔ Struggles with reading, spelling, or phonics
✔ Frequent need for repetition

Causes of APD

While the exact cause of APD is unknown, it is often linked to:
🔹 Ear infections in early childhood
🔹 Neurological conditions affecting auditory processing
🔹 Premature birth or head trauma

How is APD Diagnosed?

At Lowcountry Listening Lab, we perform a series of specialized APD evaluations to assess how well a person processes auditory information. Our tests examine speech-in-noise recognition, auditory memory, and sound discrimination abilities.

📞 If you or your child struggle with any of these symptoms, contact us today for a professional APD evaluation!