Central auditory processing disorder (CAPD) is a complex neurological condition where the brain has difficulty processing the information contained in sound.  

CAPD can affect anyone of any age, hindering their ability to understand verbal communication, especially in environments with background noise.  

Unlike hearing loss, which is often associated with physical issues in the ear, CAPD relates to how the brain interprets these sounds. This often leads to significant challenges in listening, learning, and communication, causing frustration for those affected and their families. 

If you or a loved one is dealing with what you think could be CAPD, you don’t have to deal with it alone. Our expert audiologists can help you see (and hear) lasting relief with comprehensive hearing care and CAPD screenings to allow you to hear the life you love. 

The Symptoms of CAPD 

Individuals with CAPD may exhibit various symptoms, which can include: 

• Difficulty following spoken instructions or conversations, particularly in noisy settings 

  
  

• Frequently asking for repetition or clarification 

  
  

• Trouble distinguishing similar-sounding words or phonemes 

  
  

• Problems with auditory short-term memory, leading to difficulties in retaining information after it has been spoken 

  
  

• An increased tendency to misunderstand jokes or sarcasm, sometimes resulting in literal interpretations 

  
  

• Difficulty with spelling or reading, often linked to phonological processing issues 

These challenges can significantly impact academic performance and social interactions, especially in children, where effective communication is crucial for educational development into well-rounded adults. 

How Do You Diagnose CAPD? 

Diagnosing CAPD is a nuanced process that requires a thorough evaluation by an audiologist. At our clinic, we utilize a comprehensive testing approach that goes beyond the conventional hearing tests.  

This includes various auditory processing assessments designed to measure how well the brain processes auditory information. Key components of our evaluation may involve: 

1. Comprehensive Case History: Understanding the patient's background, including any relevant family history and developmental milestones. 

   
   

2. Behavioral Auditory Processing Tests: These tests assess various auditory skills, such as auditory discrimination, auditory memory, and the ability to follow instructions in noisy environments. 

   
   

3. Cognitive Assessments: Evaluating cognitive functions related to listening and understanding sounds, including attention and memory. 

   
   

4. Collaboration With Other Professionals: We may work alongside other specialists, such as speech-language pathologists or educational psychologists, to ensure an integrated approach to diagnosis and treatment. 

How Do You Treat CAPD? 

Treatment for CAPD includes a few different approaches, but we’ve found that the best option includes tailored interventions designed to address your unique needs. 

We offer auditory training therapy in our office, in both one-on-one and group settings, to help you retrain your brain to recognize the differences between different sounds and help you strengthen your communication skills with the guidance of a professional. 

Speech therapy may also be recommended, depending on your diagnosis, and we’re privileged to be connected with several professionals in the healthcare industry who can help you with a referral from our office. 

No matter what your ears need to succeed, our team is dedicated to helping you navigate your auditory health with expertise and compassion. 

Book a CAPD Screening Today! 

If you or a loved one exhibits symptoms indicative of CAPD, it is crucial to seek professional evaluation. Our clinic specializes in diagnosing and treating auditory processing disorders, and we are committed to providing personalized hearing care strategies tailored to your unique requirements. 

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please reach out to us via our website or call us at (630) 930-1025.