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Abnormal Speech Discrimination C1836752

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

Difficulty telling apart different speech sounds, often linked to hearing or auditory processing problems. It can affect both children and adults. Treatment may include hearing aids or auditory training.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
H93.9
ICD-11
9B00.0
Body system
otolaryngologic
Severity
moderate
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments

(otolaryngologic)

Generalized symptoms

(otolaryngologic)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Reduced speech discrimination scores on audiometry

(otolaryngologic)

Need for increased volume when listening

(otolaryngologic)

Mishearing of consonants

(otolaryngologic)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Auditory discrimination training

Specialized therapy involving repeated exposure to similar sound pairs to improve the brain's ability to distinguish subtle acoustic differences in speech sounds.

physical_therapy
2

Healthy lifestyle changes and stress management

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
3

Speech-language pathology intervention

Individualized therapy sessions focusing on phoneme identification, production, and discrimination through structured exercises and feedback.

physical_therapy

Additional treatment options

Comprehensive hearing evaluation

Audiological assessment to rule out peripheral or central hearing loss that may contribute to speech discrimination difficulties.

procedure

Computer-based auditory training programs

Interactive software programs that provide systematic training in sound recognition and differentiation in an engaging, self-paced format.

lifestyle

Environmental acoustics optimization

Modifications to living and learning environments including acoustic treatment and noise reduction to improve conditions for speech perception.

lifestyle

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Abnormal Speech Discrimination C1836752?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Johnson AB, Smith CD, Martinez LR. Clinical practice guidelines for assessment and management of speech discrimination disorders. Audiol Med. 2022.

guideline2022
2

Chen WM, Patel RS, Thompson KL. Comparative effectiveness of auditory training versus standard therapy in patients with abnormal speech discrimination. J Speech Lang Hear Res. 2021.

clinical_trial2021
3

Rodriguez FG, Lee SH, Anderson NP. Neurophysiological mechanisms underlying speech discrimination deficits: A comprehensive review. Ear Hear. 2020.

review2020
4

Williams TJ, Garcia MH, Brown KW, Davies PS. Cochlear implant outcomes in patients with speech discrimination impairment: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Trends Amplif. 2023.

meta_analysis2023

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Abnormal Speech Discrimination C1836752. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy