Hyperacusis is rare, affecting only one in 50,000 people. This number is higher among tinnitus sufferers, however, affecting about one in 1,000. Hyperacusis can affect people of any age, and it can occur in one or both ears. Untreated hyperacusis can cause social isolation, phonophobia (fear of sounds), and depression.
It is extremely uncommon for someone to be born with hyperacusis. Hyperacusis can be caused by a number of diseases including Bell’s palsy, Lyme disease, Meniere’s disease, head injury, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome and noise induced hearing loss. Hyperacusis is also linked with neurologic conditions such as PTSD, epilepsy, depression, migraines, cerebral palsy and autistic spectrum disorder (ASD).
For those whose hyperacusis is the result of trauma to the head or hearing system, symptoms may go away as the injury heals. Identifying the underlying cause is always the first step in treating hyperacusis.
Some suffering from hyperacusis may seek relief by wearing earplugs or earmuffs. While this may help in the short-term, it actually decreases the already poor tolerance of noise, increasing sensitivity in the long run. This result is most obvious immediately after removing the ear protection.
An effective treatment option for hyperacusis is sound desensitization, a form of therapy where an audiologist works with the patient and exposes them to specific types of noise over time. This treatment may take six months to a year, and may be even longer for certain patients.
If you suspect you may have hyperacusis, you should seek an evaluation by an audiologist who will conduct a full audiologic evaluation, including a hearing test. The audiologist will take a record of your medical history to accurately diagnose your condition and determine your Loudness Discomfort Levels (LDL). They will then recommend an appropriate treatment plan, tailored to meet your needs.
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