Auditory processing disorder

Overview

The cause of this condition isn't known. It may be linked to ear infections or delays in nervous system growth. Other risk factors can be early birth or head injury. It's often linked to learning problems in children. Older adults with hearing loss often have it.

Symptoms

Symptoms include:

• Having trouble understanding what's being said in noisy places.
• Having trouble following directions.
• Having trouble telling the difference between words and noises that sound the same.

Treatments

Treatments may include using listening aids and working with a therapist.