hiperacusia

Hiperacusia, also known as hyperacusis, is a medical condition characterized by an increased sensitivity to ordinary sounds. Individuals with hiperacusia perceive everyday noises as uncomfortably loud or even painful, which can significantly affect their quality of life. The condition may be bilateral, affecting both ears, or unilateral, limited to one ear.

The exact cause of hiperacusia is not fully understood, but it is often associated with various auditory and neurological disorders. It may result from damage or dysfunction to the cochlea, auditory nerve, or central auditory pathways. Common contributing factors include exposure to loud noise, head trauma, ear infections, ear surgery, or certain neurological conditions such as migraines or traumatic brain injury. In some cases, hiperacusia is linked to psychological factors like anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder.

Symptoms include an exaggerated perception of noises that are normally tolerable, along with discomfort, pain, or a sensation of fullness in the ears. Patients may experience difficulty in noisy environments, social withdrawal, or anxiety related to sound sensitivity.

Diagnosis involves audiological assessments to evaluate hearing thresholds and auditory processing. It may also include questionnaires to assess the severity of sound sensitivity and its impact on daily life.

Treatment options for hiperacusia aim to reduce sound sensitivity and may include sound therapy, counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and the use of ear protection in noisy environments. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage associated symptoms such as anxiety or depression. While the condition can be challenging, individualized management strategies can significantly improve comfort and functionality for affected individuals.