LIVING WITH HYPERACUSIS
Hyperacusis is the term given to an intolerance or oversensitivity to some everyday sounds that causes significant distress and affects a person's day-to-day activities and can be a difficult condition to live with. It can vary quite a lot. For example, the over sensitivity can vary from some people finding certain noises particularly annoying or extremely uncomfortable or experiencing pain when hearing ordinary sounds and sometimes a fear of certain noises. Hyperacusis affects people of all ages and is quite common in children. It may just be a minor nuisance for some, but for many it can have a major impact on their life.
SYMPTOMS OF HYPERACUSIS
Hyperacusis can either start suddenly or develop gradually over time. When someone with hyperacusis hears noise, they may:
- feel uncomfortable for no apparent reason
- feel angry, tense, distressed, or anxious (Particularly in children)
- cover their ears or try to get away from the noise (Particularly in children)
- experience pain – hyperacusis can be very painful for some people
Some people become afraid of sound and avoid noisy situations, causing them to become socially isolated. School and work life can suffer because of Hyperacusis as it can be very difficult to concentrate. The good thing about Hyperacusis is you don’t have to live with it and treatment is available.
HOW WE CAN HELP WITH HYPERACUSIS
At The Hearing Practice Hyperacusis is easily treated with the use of sound therapy and informational counselling.
At your first appointment, you will be examined and your hearing may be tested to determine any underlying cause for the Hyperacusis. Other tests may be recommended to determine the type and levels of sound causing a reaction and then you will be put on a desensitisation programme. This uses sound therapy, information counselling and a variety of exercises and techniques to reduce the sound sensitivity back to normal.
Fiona Bateson has successfully treated Hyperacusic patients for 25 years so if you think you or your child has Hyperacusis please contact The Hearing Practice for a Hyperacusis appointment.
