Hyperacusis

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

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Hyperacusis is a hearing disorder characterized by an increased sensitivity to certain frequencies and volume ranges of sound. Individuals with hyperacusis may find everyday sounds, which are typically perceived as normal by others, to be excessively loud and sometimes painful.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The primary symptom of hyperacusis is an increased sensitivity to sound. This can lead to discomfort or pain in response to sounds that are not typically loud. Other symptoms may include:

Causes[edit | edit source]

Hyperacusis can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of hyperacusis typically involves:

  • Audiometry: A hearing test to assess the sensitivity to different frequencies and volumes.
  • Patient history: A detailed history of symptoms and potential exposure to risk factors.

Differential Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Conditions that may present with similar symptoms and should be considered include:

  • Misophonia: A strong emotional reaction to specific sounds.
  • Phonophobia: Fear of loud sounds.
  • Tinnitus: Perception of noise or ringing in the ears.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment options for hyperacusis may include:

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for hyperacusis varies. Some individuals may experience significant improvement with treatment, while others may continue to have symptoms.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD