hiperacusis

Hyperacusis is a hearing condition characterized by an increased sensitivity to everyday sounds. Individuals with hyperacusis perceive sounds as uncomfortably loud, even at volumes that most people find normal or quiet. This heightened sensitivity can cause significant distress and impact daily life.

The exact cause of hyperacusis is not fully understood, but it is often associated with damage to the auditory system. This damage can result from factors such as prolonged exposure to loud noise, head trauma, certain medical conditions, or as a side effect of some medications. It can also be linked to other auditory disorders like tinnitus.

Symptoms of hyperacusis go beyond simple annoyance. The sounds can be perceived as painful, leading to a desire to avoid noisy environments. This avoidance can result in social isolation and difficulties in professional or educational settings. Other symptoms may include ear pain, a feeling of fullness in the ear, dizziness, or headaches in response to sound.

Diagnosis typically involves a thorough audiological evaluation by an audiologist or hearing specialist. This assessment may include hearing tests and specific tests to measure sound tolerance levels. There is no single cure for hyperacusis, but management strategies aim to help individuals cope with their sensitivity. These can include sound therapy, which gradually reintroduces sounds to retrain the auditory system, counseling to manage anxiety and stress, and the use of specialized hearing protection in certain situations.