The issue revolves around a condition called auditory processing disorder (APD), in which the brain struggles to interpret sounds and speech, even when a person’s hearing is.
Why it matters: We’re living in an increasingly noisy world, and many people are turning to noise-canceling headphones to escape the cacophony. However, some audiologists are raising concerns that frequently blocking out ambient sounds could negatively impact the brain’s ability to process audio effectively.
The issue revolves around a condition called auditory processing disorder (APD), in which the brain struggles to interpret sounds and speech, even when a person’s hearing is technically normal. Those with APD often have difficulty determining the direction of sounds or focusing on specific voices in noisy environments.
APD is typically linked to brain injuries, ear infections, and neurodiversity. However, audiologists in England who spoke to the BBC report an increasing number of cases in young people that appear unrelated to these common risk factors.
