Document Type

Capstone Project

Publication Date

Fall 10-31-2021

First Advisor

Antony Joseph, MA., Au.D., Ph.D., ABAC, CCC-A, CPS/A, F-NAP

Keywords

Tinnitus, hearing loss, occupational noise, bothersome tinnitus, outcome measures, autism, handedness, language, central auditory processing disorder, associative deficit

Disciplines

Communication Sciences and Disorders

Abstract

Introduction: Some people with tinnitus have normal audiometric hearing thresholds. Even when hearing is within normal limits, patients can suffer a myriad of symptoms from tinnitus, including depression and other mental health problems. Case Presentation: A male adult presented to the clinic with complaints of bothersome tinnitus, asymmetric hearing loss, and a long history of environmental noise exposure, including both occupational and recreational noise. Discussion: Audiologists should determine the primary concerns of their tinnitus patients and how the condition affects their health and wellbeing. To do this, a thorough case history, audiologic assessment, outcome measures, and empathetic listening should be administered to fully understand the extent of disability. Continuous monitoring of the tinnitus patient is recommended with referral for follow up care when their tinnitus produces related depression. Conclusion: Further research is suggested in order to determine clinical protocols and care plans that improve quality of life for patients with asymmetric hearing loss.

Introduction: Central auditory processing disorder (CAPD) is a condition seen in children and adults that affects how information is coded, organized, and processed by high-order auditory mechanisms. These patients may become increasingly complex when they present to the clinic with comorbid diagnoses. Case Presentation: An adolescent male was seen for an auditory processing assessment, due to concerns raised by his parents and school educators. He had a history of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Results of his audiologic examination revealed normal hearing thresholds bilaterally, with a CAPD that was accompanied by an associative deficit. Discussion: Research has shown a correlation between interhemispheric language problems and handedness. There are data that identify correlations between handedness and ASD. Once CAPD has been diagnosed, clinicians should counsel the patient about home and school recommendations to mitigate educational implications and to avoid social, emotional, and communication problems. Conclusion: Further research should be conducted to examine the co-occurrence of CAPD and comorbidities. Validated treatment strategies and clinical-practice guidelines are needed for pediatric patients who are diagnosed with auditory processing disorders.

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