What are the symptoms of hyperacusis?
The common symptoms of hyperacusis include:
- Feeling pain or discomfort from sounds
- Sounds feeling much louder than they are
- Having trouble with sounds in loud places
- Feeling anxious or stressed because of noises
What causes hyperacusis?
Hyperacusis can be caused by several things, including:
- Hearing loss or damage to the ears
- Head injuries
- Certain health conditions like migraines
- Exposure to loud noises over time
How common is hyperacusis?
Hyperacusis is not very common, but it does affect some people. It can happen after an injury, hearing loss, or other health issues. It’s important to know that anyone can experience it, but it may not be well known.
Who is more likely to get hyperacusis?
People who are more likely to experience hyperacusis include:
- Those with hearing loss
- People with certain health conditions, like migraines
- Individuals who have been exposed to loud noises
- People who have had head injuries
How can I treat hyperacusis?
Treating hyperacusis can involve different approaches, such as:
- Avoiding loud environments when possible
- Using ear protection in noisy places
- Working with a therapist to cope with sound sensitivity
- Potentially trying medications prescribed by a doctor
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How to live with hyperacusis?
Living with hyperacusis can be challenging, but there are ways to cope, such as:
- Finding quiet spaces to relax
- Communicating your needs to family and friends
- Joining support groups for better understanding and sharing experiences
Final thoughts
Hyperacusis can make life difficult due to sensitivity to sound, but there are ways to manage it. If you’re concerned about how it affects you, speaking to your GP or healthcare provider is a good step to take.