Anderson Audiology

Hidden Hearing Loss: Understanding and Addressing Auditory Processing Disorders

Hidden hearing loss, also known as auditory processing disorder (APD), can often go undetected due to its subtle nature. Yet, understanding and addressing APD is crucial for enhancing life quality. This guide will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments of hidden hearing loss, with a wealth of resources to support you.

Understanding Hidden Hearing Loss

Hidden hearing loss refers to a condition where someone struggles to hear in noisy environments despite having normal hearing test results. It’s a type of auditory processing disorder, which affects how the brain processes sounds. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) provides comprehensive information on the condition.

Causes and Symptoms of Hidden Hearing Loss

The exact cause of hidden hearing loss is still being researched. Current studies suggest that it might be due to damage to the synapses that connect the inner ear’s hair cells to the auditory nerve.

Key symptoms include difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments, feeling overwhelmed by loud noises, and having to ask others to repeat themselves frequently.

Diagnosis of Hidden Hearing Loss

Identifying hidden hearing loss can be challenging, as standard hearing tests often appear normal. However, specialized tests performed by hearing healthcare specialists can detect the condition. Anderson Audiology has five convenient locations in Nevada. Find your local hearing clinic here. 

Addressing Hidden Hearing Loss

If you’re diagnosed with hidden hearing loss, there are various strategies and technologies to help manage the condition:

  • Communication strategies: Learning to control your listening environment can make a big difference. This may involve choosing quieter places for conversations or asking people to face you when they’re speaking.
  • Therapy: Speech-language pathologists can offer therapies to improve your auditory processing skills. ASHA provides a directory of speech-language pathologists.

Hidden hearing loss might be less visible, but its impact on quality of life can be significant. By better understanding and addressing auditory processing disorders, we can take proactive steps to improve hearing health.

Need Help? Contact Us Today!

Remember, early detection and appropriate management strategies are key to overcoming the challenges of hidden hearing loss. Don’t hesitate to seek help if you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms.
The hearing care professionals at Anderson Audiology are here to assist you with your hearing health. Call us today on 702-997-2964. Alternatively, click here to request an appointment online.

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