Hyperacusis is when everyday sounds seem too loud or hurt your ears. Things like a phone ringing, dishes clinking, or even someone talking can feel painful. This condition can make it hard to do normal things, like going to the store or spending time with friends.
At RK Audiology in Austin, TX, we understand how tough this can be. Our expert audiologists in Austin, TX, are here to help you understand why sounds seem too loud and find ways to make life more comfortable.
Hyperacusis: Signs and Symptoms
People with hyperacusis may feel like normal sounds are too loud or even painful. You might notice that you start avoiding noisy places like restaurants or playgrounds. Some people feel a sharp pain in their ears or a ringing sound, called tinnitus, when they hear certain noises.
This can lead to stress, anxiety, or trouble sleeping. At RK Audiology, we help people who struggle with these symptoms. If you think you might have hyperacusis, it is important to reach out to a hearing professional who can listen to your concerns and guide you through the next steps.
Hyperacusis: Causes
Hyperacusis can happen for many reasons. It might be caused by loud noises, like listening to music with headphones at a high volume or being around loud machinery. Other causes can include ear infections, head injuries, or certain medical conditions like migraines or Lyme disease.
Sometimes, people don’t know what caused their hyperacusis. At RK Audiology, we can help you understand what might be causing your sensitivity to sound and work with you to create a plan to manage it.
Diagnosing Hyperacusis
Getting the right diagnosis is important for anyone with hyperacusis. A hearing test is one of the first steps. At RK Audiology in Austin, our skilled audiologists will check your hearing and ask questions about your symptoms. This helps us understand how hyperacusis affects you. A correct diagnosis allows us to provide the best care possible. If you think you might have hyperacusis, our team is ready to help you.
Hyperacusis Treatment
There are different ways to treat hyperacusis, and the best method depends on what causes it. One common treatment is sound therapy, which helps your ears get used to normal sounds again. Counseling or therapy can also be helpful if you are feeling anxious or stressed because of your symptoms. At RK Audiology, we offer personalized treatments to help you manage your sensitivity to sound and improve your quality of life.
Hyperacusis Home Remedies
There are many things people try at home for hyperacusis, but it’s always a good idea to see a professional for help. Some people feel better by using white noise machines, which play calming sounds like rain or ocean waves. Others use earplugs when they are in loud places.
Relaxing activities, like deep breathing or meditation, can help with stress that makes hyperacusis worse. Changing your diet, like cutting down on caffeine and sugar, might help some people too.
However, these home remedies are not substitutes for professional care. At RK Audiology, we encourage anyone with hyperacusis to see an audiologist to make sure they get the best treatment.
Hyperacusis Risk Factors
Some people are more likely to get hyperacusis than others. If you have been exposed to loud noises often, like at concerts or in noisy work environments, you might be at higher risk. Medical conditions, such as Bell’s palsy or Lyme disease, can also increase the risk. People with anxiety, depression, or a history of migraines are more likely to experience hyperacusis too. Understanding these risk factors can help you take steps to protect your ears and seek help early.
Audiologists in Austin, TX
Living with hyperacusis can be challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. Expert hearing professionals are here to help you understand your condition and find ways to make life easier. Our experienced team is ready to provide the care you need to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards feeling better.