Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD)
How is central auditory processing disorder (CAPD) diagnosed?
If you have trouble hearing, your doctor may recommend the following tests:
- Auditory processing disorder (APD) tests. Currently, most APD tests are made for children aged 7 and above. A hearing test is used to see if your child's issues are caused by hearing loss. A series of advanced listening tests will check how your child responds to different sounds.
- Standard hearing tests. These safe and painless tests will confirm the type and degree of hearing loss. Performed in a soundproof booth, hearing tests are often done with the use of specially-designed headphones. The test results are placed on an audiogram, which is a visual representation of the degree of hearing loss.
- Cognitive screening. Cognitive processes are related to auditory processing. Thus, cognitive screening is one of the diagnostic tests for CAPD.
- Language screening. A speech and language screening does a 30-minute assessment of your child's speech (sound pronunciation) and language (answering questions, following directions, naming vocabulary, processing information, etc.), observing play and social interactions, and writing and reading abilities.
Proper diagnosis is crucial to determine the most suitable treatment for you. With the aid of medical equipment, our team of experienced specialists and nurses will work together to come up with an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan for your child's or your condition.
How is central auditory processing disorder (CAPD) treated?
While there is currently no cure for CAPD, there are different treatment options available that aim to improve this condition. A speech therapist will assess the condition and recommend a suitable treatment based on its severity.
Treatment may include:
- Individual speech therapy sessions. Speech therapy is a big help for those with CAPD. The aim of the therapy is to train auditory processing pathways.
- Intervention to adjust a child's learning environments. The learning environment of a child is very important in managing CAPD. It is important that parents and educators create an environment that considers the following:
- Assigning seats away from windows and other distractions
- Assigning seats close to teachers in the classroom
- Reducing background noise whenever possible
- Using hearing aids to increase speech signals and direct them to the child's ears
- Using visual aids such as handouts and diagrams to help the child follow the lesson
This page has been reviewed by our medical content reviewers.
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