Sound Sensitivity (Hyperacusis): Just the Facts

Sound sensitivity (also known as hyperacusis) is when you are sensitive to certain sounds.

What causes sound sensitivity?

Sound sensitivity can be caused by:

• Behavioural reactions. Certain sounds may trigger a fight-or-flight response. This is an acute stress response reaction in your brain to something that has scared you. When a sound is loud, sudden and unexpected, it can be scary but once you learn what the sound is, where it comes from, that it’s likely to be temporary and not dangerous, you will be less sensitive to the sound if you hear it again.
• Other medical conditions, additional sensory issues or complex needs.
• Glue ear (middle ear fluid). Having glue ear may have caused temporary hearing loss. When hearing returns, sounds may seem louder than usual.

Sound sensitivity varies for everyone so some people may be more sensitive to certain sounds than others.

Types of sounds

The types of sounds people can find sensitive may vary but usually the sounds are likely to be loud and unpredictable. Common sound sensitivities include:

• Sirens
• Vacuum cleaners
• Hand or hair dryers
• Balloons popping
• Fireworks

This is not a complete list because it can be different for everyone.

What should I do if I have sound sensitivity?

Most sound sensitivities improve over time and you’ll unlikely need medical treatment. Here are a few tips you can try if you are experiencing sound sensitivity:

• Keep calm – try to keep yourself calm. Click here to learn ways to calm yourself when feeling anxious. You can ask someone what the noise was and where it’s coming from. This will help you understand that the noise is likely to be temporary and not dangerous.
• Distract yourself – if there are noises you are sensitive to near you, distract yourself by putting some music on, reading a book or speaking to friends and family.
• Desensitise yourself – if there is a particular noise you find sensitive, try to listen to the sound at a low volume and gradually increase the noise over time. This way you can get used to the sound without feeling distressed.

How to get help

If you have any more questions on this area or would like to speak to somebody about this topic, have a look at the links or search for your local services in the blue box below. Alternatively, you can always contact your school nurse.

• w: Noise sensitivity (hyperacusis)