What is hyperacusis?
Hyperacusis is a hearing condition characterized by decreased sound tolerance, making everyday sounds seem uncomfortably loud, painful, or overwhelming. People with hyperacusis experience physical discomfort or pain from sounds that others find normal or only mildly loud, such as dishes clattering, children playing, traffic noise, or even their own voice. This condition affects the auditory system's ability to process sound levels appropriately, leading to heightened sensitivity that can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. Unlike general noise sensitivity, hyperacusis involves a reduced tolerance for sound intensity across multiple frequencies, often causing individuals to avoid social situations or environments they once enjoyed comfortably.