What is Hyperacusis?

Hyperacusis is a condition where everyday sounds seem uncomfortably loud or even painful. People with hyperacusis may find it difficult to be in noisy environments like shopping centers, restaurants, or busy streets. It can impact daily life, making social interactions, work, and leisure activities challenging.

Types of Hyperacusis

There are different ways people experience hyperacusis:

• Loudness Hyperacusis – Normal sounds feel much louder than they should.
• Pain Hyperacusis – Certain sounds cause physical pain.
• Fear Hyperacusis – A person develops anxiety or fear of sounds and avoids them.
• Annoyance Hyperacusis – Specific sounds cause irritation or distress, even if they are not loud.

What Causes Hyperacusis?

Hyperacusis can be caused by several factors, including:

• Hearing loss or ear damage – Exposure to loud noise, infections, or trauma can make sounds seem too loud.
• Medical conditions – It is sometimes linked to migraines, autism, Bell’s palsy, fibromyalgia, or Lyme disease.
• Stress and anxiety – Emotional distress can heighten sensitivity to sound.
• Acoustic Shock Syndrome – Sudden loud noises, such as a phone screeching in the ear, can trigger ongoing sensitivity.
• Brain and nerve function – Some research suggests that miscommunication between the brain and ears may play a role.

Hyperacusis in Children

Hyperacusis is also seen in children, especially those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They may struggle with noisy environments like classrooms, making daily activities difficult.

How is Hyperacusis Diagnosed?

A hearing specialist (audiologist) can diagnose hyperacusis using:

• Hearing tests – Checking if sound sensitivity is linked to hearing loss.
• Uncomfortable Loudness Level tests – Measuring the lowest volume at which sounds become uncomfortably loud.
• Questionnaires – Assessing how much hyperacusis affects daily life.
• Natural sound rating tests – Evaluating reactions to common sounds.

How is Hyperacusis Managed?

While there is no single cure for hyperacusis, several treatment options can help:

Medical Treatments

• Medication – Some drugs for migraines and nerve-related conditions may help.
• Surgery – In rare cases, procedures like middle ear tendon resection or cochlear implants may be considered.

Non-Medical Treatments

• Sound Therapy – Gradual exposure to soft sounds can help retrain the brain to tolerate noise.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – A psychologist can help manage anxiety and emotional responses to sound.
• Relaxation Techniques – Deep breathing, mindfulness, and meditation can reduce sound-related stress.
• Hearing Aids & Sound Generators – Some devices can filter or reduce the impact of sound sensitivity.
• Education and Counseling – Understanding how hyperacusis works can help reduce fear and improve coping strategies.

Practical Tips for Managing Hyperacusis

• Avoid total silence – Use soft background noise to prevent the ears from becoming more sensitive.
• Use ear protection wisely – Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can help in extreme situations but should not be overused.
• Limit exposure to loud noise – Be mindful of high-volume environments, but don’t avoid all sound completely.
• Seek professional help – An audiologist or therapist can provide personalized treatment options.

Hyperacusis vs. Misophonia

Hyperacusis is different from misophonia, which is a strong emotional reaction to specific sounds (like chewing or breathing). Misophonia is more about how the brain interprets sounds emotionally, while hyperacusis is about physical sensitivity to sound.

Living with Hyperacusis

Hyperacusis can be challenging, but with the right approach, it can become manageable. Seeking professional support, using sound therapy, and practicing relaxation techniques can all make a significant difference.

If you or someone you know struggles with sound sensitivity, contact a healthcare provider or visit www.tinnitushelpline.com for more information and support.

1 on 1 consultation for Hyperacusis Assessment & Management

Personalized Coaching Sessions with Abhay Kumar | Clinical Audiologist & Tinnitus, Hyperacusis and Misophonia expert.

Abhay Kumar offers personalized coaching for individuals affected by Hyperacusis, including pre-teens, teens, adults, and their families. These coaching sessions are designed to provide psychoeducation, coping strategies, and practical skills-building. Choose from flexible packages that can be booked per session or as part of a structured program.

Pricing:

• Assessment & Test result discussion : $350 AUD
• 6 Sessions: AUD 900
• 10 Sessions (Structured Program): $1500 AUD
• Cost of sound generator or hearing aids are not included

Note: All coaching sessions are available online via Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, WhatsApp, face-time.

Please email us to schedule a consultation for a hyperacusis assessment: admin@tinnitushelpline.com