Selective sound sensitivity syndrome

Selective Sound Sensitivity Syndrome Selective Sound Sensitivity Syndrome, also known as Misophonia, is a condition characterized by an intense emotional reaction to specific sounds. Individuals with this syndrome experience strong negative emotions such as anger, anxiety, or disgust when exposed to certain auditory stimuli, often referred to as "trigger sounds."

Symptoms

The primary symptom of Selective Sound Sensitivity Syndrome is an emotional response to specific sounds. Common trigger sounds include:

• Chewing
• Breathing
• Tapping
• Sniffling

These sounds can provoke a range of emotional responses, from mild irritation to intense rage or panic. The severity of the reaction can vary from person to person.

Causes

The exact cause of Selective Sound Sensitivity Syndrome is not well understood. However, several theories have been proposed:

• Neurological Basis: Some researchers suggest that misophonia may be related to abnormal connections between the auditory system and the limbic system, which is involved in processing emotions.
• Psychological Factors: It is also thought that past experiences or psychological conditions may contribute to the development of misophonia.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing Selective Sound Sensitivity Syndrome can be challenging, as it is not widely recognized in the medical community. Diagnosis typically involves:

• Clinical Interview: A healthcare provider may conduct a detailed interview to understand the patient's symptoms and their impact on daily life.
• Exclusion of Other Conditions: It is important to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as Hyperacusis or Phonophobia.

Treatment

There is no standard treatment for Selective Sound Sensitivity Syndrome, but several approaches may help manage symptoms:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT can help individuals change their response to trigger sounds by altering thought patterns and behaviors.
• Sound Therapy: Using background noise or white noise machines to mask trigger sounds can provide relief.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Avoiding known triggers and using earplugs or headphones in triggering environments can help reduce symptoms.

Research

Research on Selective Sound Sensitivity Syndrome is ongoing. Studies are exploring the neurological and psychological aspects of the condition to better understand its causes and develop effective treatments.

See Also

• Hyperacusis
• Phonophobia
• Auditory Processing Disorder
• Jastreboff, M. M., & Jastreboff, P. J. (2001). "Components of decreased sound tolerance: Hyperacusis, misophonia, phonophobia." ITHS.
• Schr der, A., Vulink, N., & Denys, D. (2013). "Misophonia: Diagnostic criteria for a new psychiatric disorder." PLoS ONE.

NIH genetic and rare disease info

• NIH info on Selective sound sensitivity syndrome

Selective sound sensitivity syndrome is a rare disease.