Noise sensitivity is a medical condition in which different types of sounds create a great deal of discomfort for an individual. There are several different forms of hearing sensitivity, some of which are permanent in nature. Other types of sound sensitivity develop as a result of an underlying physical or mental ailment and will begin to dissipate once the ailment is diagnosed and successfully treated.
Misophonia is one of the more common forms of sensitivity to noise. With this manifestation, an individual finds it impossible to tolerate specific sounds, regardless of the decibel level of the sound. For example, a person may experience noise anxiety that leads to a panic attack when hearing a train whistle. At the same time, music that is just as loud as the train whistle may produce no discomfort at all.
Hyperacusis is another type of noise sensitivity. In this scenario, an individual is not adversely affected by particular sounds, but by a certain range or frequency of sound. Any noise that falls within that range will trigger a severe reaction that is very difficult to tolerate. Unlike most people, a person with hyperacusis cannot filter various forms of noise. As a result, the individual experiences what is perceived as a solid wall of noise that is constantly closing in. This form of sensitivity can be especially difficult to live with, since many people suffering with the condition find it unbearable to be in any setting where everyday sounds take place.
The underlying causes for the different types of noise sensitivity may be due to some sort of trauma to the body or as a result of some type of abnormality in the middle or inner ear that becomes apparent as the individual ages. Various illnesses can also result in the development of this type of sensitive hearing over a period of time. In most cases, it is possible to treat the cause even while taking steps to alleviate the pain and discomfort of this type of hearing problem.
Among physical illnesses that can lead to noise sensitivity, conditions such as constant migraine headaches may lead to the development of hearing issues. A sudden trauma, such as a head injury, may trigger the problems with hearing. Severe panic disorder may also be accompanied by oversensitive hearing that in turn facilitates panic attacks. Ear infections, surgery, and the use of some prescription medications can also lead to this heightened reaction to noise.
In some cases, people suffering from noise sensitivity can use earplugs to muffle the sounds and obtain some relief. Others find that changing medications or treating the underlying disease or ailment will allow hearing to return to normal. In the case of a head injury or surgery, the sensitivity to noise will begin to ease as the individual heals.
Should you find yourself growing more sensitive to noise, it is important to see a doctor immediately. Since the condition can be a symptom of several different conditions like Bell’s Palsy, or Tension Myositis Syndrome, an early diagnosis can not only help relieve the pain of enduring various sounds, but also make it possible to treat the underlying health issue before it has a chance to worsen.
