Hyperacusis

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Hyperacusis is a health condition characterized by an increased sensitivity to certain frequency and volume ranges of sound (a collapsed tolerance to usual environmental sound). A person with severe hyperacusis has difficulty tolerating everyday sounds, which become painful or loud.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The primary symptom of hyperacusis is an increased sensitivity to certain frequencies and volumes of sound. Some people with hyperacusis may find soft sounds to be excessively loud and unbearable. This can lead to social isolation, as the person may avoid situations where they might be exposed to sounds they find uncomfortable.

Causes[edit | edit source]

The exact cause of hyperacusis is unknown. It may be caused by exposure to loud noise, damage to the ear or brain, or as a side effect of certain medications. Some people may be born with hyperacusis, while others may develop it later in life.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for hyperacusis typically involves cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which can help the person manage their reactions to sounds. Other treatments may include sound therapy, which uses controlled exposure to sound to help the person reduce their sensitivity.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Hyperacusis Resources
Doctor showing form.jpg
Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD, Dr.T