Discover the causes, symptoms, and treatments for hyperacusis. Learn how to manage this sensitivity to sound on Meri Sehat.

Hyperacusis

Overview

Hyperacusis refers to an increased sensitivity to normal sounds in one&rsquo;s surrounding environment. 
&nbsp;

Hyperacusis is relatively uncommon, affecting about 1 in 50,000 people.<a href="#accordion">[1]</a> However, it can occur in individuals of all ages, though it is most frequently reported in adults. This condition typically coexists with other auditory issues, such as tinnitus. 
 
&nbsp;

There are two primary types of hyperacusis:<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>

<ul>
	<li>Cochlear Hyperacusis &ndash; Related to the sensitivity of the inner ear, particularly the cochlea, causing discomfort or pain in response to loud noises</li>
	<li>Vestibular Hyperacusis &ndash; Related to the vestibular system, causing affected individuals to experience <a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/dizziness">dizziness</a>, <a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/nausea">nausea</a>, or a sense of disequilibrium when exposed to certain sounds 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Sign and Symptom

The symptoms of hyperacusis can vary in intensity and may include:

<ul>
	<li>Discomfort or pain in the ears in response to everyday sounds</li>
	<li>Avoidance of noisy environments</li>
	<li>Anxiety or stress related to exposure to sound</li>
	<li>Difficulty concentrating or following conversations due to sound sensitivity 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Causes

Prolonged exposure to loud noises, such as industrial noise or loud music, can damage the auditory system and lead to hyperacusis.

The condition may also manifest due to trauma to the head or neck, chronic ear infections, migraine, and neurological disorders like Bell&#39;s palsy or multiple sclerosis.

Additionally, certain psychological factors like stress and anxiety can affect auditory processing too. 
&nbsp;

Diagnosis

A comprehensive evaluation by an ENT or audiologist helps diagnose hyperacusis. Doctors review the patient&rsquo;s medical and auditory history and perform a physical examination to identify potential causes.

They may order hearing tests and loudness discomfort level (LDL) tests to assess overall hearing ability and determine specific volume levels that cause discomfort. 
&nbsp;

Treatment

There is no cure for hyperacusis. However, it is possible to manage it through:

<ul>
	<li>Sound Therapy &ndash; Gradual exposure to low-level, soothing sounds to desensitize the auditory system</li>
	<li>Hearing Aids &ndash; Controlled sound exposure to reduce sound sensitivity</li>
	<li>Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) &ndash; To address the psychological impact of hyperacusis and develop coping strategies</li>
	<li>Medication -&nbsp;To manage anxiety or depression associated with hyperacusis 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

If left untreated, hyperacusis can lead to several complications:

<ul>
	<li>Social withdrawal and isolation</li>
	<li>Increased risk of anxiety, stress, or depression</li>
	<li>Reduced quality of life due, i.e. difficulty performing daily activities 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Working in noisy environments without adequate ear protection and underlying neurological or mental disorders can increase the risk of developing hyperacusis. 
&nbsp;

While hyperacusis cannot always be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk:

<ul>
	<li>Using noise-canceling or headphones in loud environments</li>
	<li>Limit exposure to excessively loud sounds</li>
	<li>Early detection of auditory issues</li>
	<li>Meditation and other relaxation exercises 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Key Points

<ul>
	<li>Hyperacusis is an increased sensitivity to normal environmental sounds, causing discomfort or pain.</li>
	<li>Signs and symptoms include anxiety or stress related to sound exposure, difficulty concentrating, and social withdrawal.</li>
	<li>Causes and risk factors of hyperacusis include prolonged noise exposure, head injuries, ear infections, migraine, and underlying conditions.</li>
	<li>An audiologist or ENT specialist may diagnose the condition, based on medical review, physical examination, hearing tests, and loudness discomfort level test.</li>
	<li>Treatment includes sound therapy, hearing aids, cognitive behavioral therapy, and medication for underlying health issues.</li>
	<li>Preventive measures include using ear protection in loud environments and regular hearing check-ups.</li>
</ul>