The Quick Answer to: What Is Hyperacusis?

Hyperacusis is a hearing condition where everyday sounds feel painfully loud or overwhelming, even when they’re at a normal volume. Unlike tinnitus, which creates internal sounds, hyperacusis changes the way the brain processes external noise. It can be frustrating, isolating, and sometimes linked to underlying ear or nervous system conditions.

What Causes Hyperacusis? Kelowna Audiologist Answers

Several factors can contribute to hyperacusis, including:

• Noise exposure: Repeated loud sound exposure can damage auditory pathways.
• Head injury or trauma: Can disrupt how the brain regulates sound.
• Neurological conditions: Migraines, Bell’s palsy, or other nerve-related conditions may play a role.
• Ear disorders: Ménière’s disease, tinnitus, or ear surgery history.
• Stress and anxiety: Heightened nervous system responses can amplify sound sensitivity.

Hyperacusis Symptoms

• Everyday sounds (clinking dishes, traffic, conversations) feel uncomfortably loud.
• Pain, pressure, or discomfort in the ears when exposed to noise.
• Avoidance of social or public settings because of sound sensitivity.
• Heightened anxiety or stress around sound.
• Sometimes accompanied by tinnitus or balance issues.

Does Hyperacusis Go Away?

For some people, hyperacusis improves over time with proper management, especially when caused by temporary factors like noise trauma or stress. In other cases, ongoing treatment is needed to manage sensitivity. Early assessment by an audiologist increases the chance of effective relief and recovery.

Hyperacusis Treatment Options

• Sound therapy: Gentle exposure to controlled sounds helps retrain the auditory system.
• Counseling or CBT: Reduces stress and changes how the brain interprets sound.
• Hearing aids with sound generators: Provide relief if tinnitus is also present.
• Lifestyle strategies: Avoiding silence, managing stress, and practicing relaxation.

Medical referral: In some cases, collaboration with an ENT or neurologist is necessary.

When to See a Kelowna Audiologist

If normal sounds feel painfully loud or are affecting your quality of life, it’s important to schedule a professional assessment. An audiologist can determine whether hyperacusis is present, rule out related conditions, and guide you toward effective treatment.

Local Hyperacusis Support in Kelowna

At Lakeside Hearing, we help patients manage hyperacusis with personalized treatment plans, including sound therapy and counseling strategies. If sound sensitivity is interfering with your daily life, we’re here to support you.

📞 Book a hyperacusis consultation with our Kelowna audiologists today.