ääniherkkyyteen

Ääniherkkyys, also known as hyperacusis, is a medical condition characterized by an increased sensitivity to ordinary everyday sounds. Individuals with ääniherkkyys may experience discomfort, pain, or even distress when exposed to sounds that most people would not find bothersome. This heightened sensitivity can significantly impact a person's quality of life, leading to avoidance of social situations, difficulty concentrating, and emotional distress.

The exact causes of ääniherkkyys are not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a dysfunction in the auditory processing pathways of the brain. It can sometimes be associated with other conditions such as Ménière's disease, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, or traumatic brain injury. In some cases, it may develop following exposure to loud noises or as a symptom of certain neurological conditions.

Diagnosis typically involves a thorough audiological evaluation to rule out other hearing issues and to assess the nature and severity of the sound sensitivity. There is no single cure for ääniherkkyys, but management strategies often focus on reducing sound exposure, desensitization therapy (sound therapy), and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help individuals cope with the condition and its psychological impact. The goal of treatment is to improve tolerance to sound and to restore a better quality of life for affected individuals.