Hyperacusis refers to extreme sensitivity to sound. It is characterized by a heightened sense of volume and discomfort to sounds which others would find comfortable. Examples of sounds that may cause significant discomfort to those with hyperacusis are:
- a cup being put down on a saucer;
- cutlery hitting the sink;
- high pitch sounds such as brakes on trucks;
- dogs barking; and
- children crying
Hyperacusis may result from a number of types of damage to the inner ear (cochlea), particularly the Outer hair cells (OHCs). It can be managed with superior modern hearing device technology, requiring careful adjustment of the compression, the mechanism used to dampen loud sound. Many tinnitus patients suffer from hyperacusis but it may also present on its own. We can assist you either way.