What it is
The cause is often unknown. It can be linked to repeated ear infections, a head injury or other developmental conditions, and it can be mistaken for hearing loss, ADHD or language problems.
There is no single cure. Support includes changes to the listening environment, assistive listening devices and auditory training.
Common signs
- Difficulty following speech in background noise
- Often asking people to repeat themselves
- Trouble following spoken instructions
- Difficulty telling apart similar-sounding words
How it is usually diagnosed
- A full hearing test first to rule out hearing loss
- Specialist auditory processing tests by an audiologist
- Speech, language and learning assessments
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Hearing test results (audiograms)
- Auditory processing assessment reports
- School support plans and therapy reports
Questions to ask your doctor
- Has hearing loss been ruled out?
- What support would help at school or work?
- Should we also look at language or attention?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Sudden loss of hearing in one or both ears needs same-day medical advice
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.