Hyperacusis

Helping children and adults hear more easily

Hyperacusis and Misophonia

Hyperacusis is an over sensitivity to sound that has perceptual, psychological, and social dimensions. Hyperacusis can be related to the loudness of the sound and/or to emotional reaction (annoyance or fear) to sound. There is a growing awareness that children, as well as adults, experience symptoms of hyperacusis or misophonia, which are real and are experienced by almost 9% of the population.

Evidence gathered over the past two decades suggest hyperacusis may be related to increased gain in the central auditory pathway and to increased anxiety or emotional response to loud sounds. Not everyone with hyperacusis needs treatment from a professional. However, there are many people who have benefited from seeing a hyperacusis specialist. Various counseling and sound therapy approaches have proven to be successful in treating hyperacusis.

Are you experiencing hyperacusis or misophonia? Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Hyperacusis: Underlying Pathophysiology and Management Professor Danesh Explains it All!

The provided text is primarily from a presentation by Professor Danesh outlining the underlying pathophysiology, definitions, and management of hyperacusis, a decreased sound tolerance disorder. It discusses neurological, peripheral, and central causes of the condition, along with associated pathological conditions and comorbidities such as tinnitus, autism spectrum disorder, and psychological issues like anxiety and depression. The presentation also covers various methods for evaluating hyperacusis, including loudness discomfort levels and questionnaires. Finally, it explores different treatment approaches, encompassing psychological therapies like CBT, sound therapy techniques, and mentions limited research into medical and surgical interventions.

Professor Danesh breaks down hyperacusis: what causes it, how it's diagnosed, and the treatment options available today, including sound therapy and CBT. A must-watch for anyone navigating decreased sound tolerance.

Misophonia: Mysteries, Management, and Neurobiological Insights (Explianed by Professor Ali Danesh)

Misophonia is a decreased sound tolerance disorder characterized by strong emotional and physiological reactions to specific sounds, particularly those repetitive and human-produced. The condition is not about the loudness of the sound, but rather the content, and often triggers feelings like anger, anxiety, and disgust. Research explores the neurobiological underpinnings of misophonia, identifying key brain regions like the insular cortex and amygdala and suggests that motor responses also play a significant role. Studies indicate misophonia can significantly impact quality of life, leading to avoidance behaviors, social isolation, and even self-harm, and commonly co-occurs with other psychiatric disorders. Assessment involves case history, questionnaires, and audiologic testing, while management strategies include sound therapy, counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, and relaxation techniques. The information also calls for greater awareness among academics and personalized treatment plans.

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Written by Dr. Danesh and Colleagues