Damage to the brainstem may result in an Auditory Processing Disorder.
This is a neurological-based hearing loss in which the brain has difficulty processing the information it receives from the ears.
As a result, a Survivor may struggle to understand someone talking and they also may have difficulty making sense of other sounds they hear.
This condition may lead to the following auditory processing problems:
– Auditory memory problems: This involves difficulties being able to recall what was said, such as remembering the lyrics to various songs or remembering phone numbers.
– Taking longer to understand and respond in conversations.
– Having trouble understanding speech.
– Unable to hold a conversation in crowded places.
– Sensory overload (becoming overwhelmed or anxious when in noisy environments)
How is an auditory processing disorder diagnosed ?
An audiologist must conduct an assessment in order to make the actual diagnosis.
What can be done ?
– Receive specialized speech therapy that focuses on building auditory skills.
– Use various coping strategies such as a recording device to record communication.
– Change the environment to reduce or eliminate certain sounds.
References:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24938-auditory-processing-disorder
