People with this condition have a low tolerance for sounds in one ear or in both. Hyperacusis is a disorder that affects how you perceive loudness. If you have ever asked, “why are my ears sensitive to sound?” this guide about hyperacusis, its symptoms, and its treatments could be for you. Everything sounds louder than it is, making everyday tasks seem impossible. ![]() It causes sound sensitivity and can impact your daily life in many detrimental ways. Individuals can have tinnitus and hyperacusis at the same time.Hyperacusis is a rare condition that affects one in 50,000 people, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Nearly 36 million Americans suffer from tinnitus an estimated one of every thousand also has hyperacusis. Hyperacusis is strongly associated with tinnitus, a condition commonly referred to as ringing in the ears. The result is a narrow range of comfortable hearing. For example, a person with recruitment may have hearing loss below 50 decibels while at the same time sound above 80 decibels may be intolerable. Hearing loss coupled with low tolerance to sound is another termed recruitment, a condition where soft sounds cannot be heard and loud sounds are intolerable (or distorted). Instead, it is a clear indication of a problem in the way the brain processes sound. Counter to what one might think, this does not mean that those with hyperacusis hear better than others. Hearing tests usually indicate normal hearing sensitivity and often register at minus decibel levels. Because social situations are often painfully loud for those with hyperacusis, withdrawal, social isolation, and depression are common. Completion of sound therapy may take up to 12 months, and usually improves sound tolerance. Those suffering from hyperacusis may be uncomfortable with placing sound directly in their ear, but the device produces a gentle static-like sound (white noise) that is barely audible. This involves the use of a noise-generating device worn on the affected ear or ears. However, sound therapy may be used to retrain the auditory processing center of the brain to accept everyday sounds. There are no specific corrective surgical or medical treatments for hyperacusis. Counseling about evaluation findings and treatment options may also be provided at that time. The initial consultation is likely to include a full audiologic evaluation (with a hearing test), a recording of medical history, and a medical evaluation by a physician. Individuals who suspect they may have hyperacusis should seek an evaluation by an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat doctor). ![]() Hyperacusis is seen in brain-injured children (due to the universal sensory sensitivity), some autistic children, and some children with cerebral palsy) Diagnosis of Hyperacusis There are a variety of neurologic conditions that may be associated with hyperacusis, including: ![]()
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