Hyperacusias is a medical condition where individuals exhibit extreme sensitivity to normal sounds. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled /haɪpərəˈkjuːzɪəs/. The first syllable is pronounced as "high-per", the second syllable is "uh", the third is "koo", followed by "zhee" and "uhs" for the last two syllables. The spelling of Hyperacusias is derived from the Greek word "huper" meaning 'over' and "akousis" meaning 'hearing'. People with this condition may experience discomfort, pain, and anxiety with exposure to everyday sounds.
Hyperacusias is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal sensitivity or intolerance to certain sounds. It results in an oversensitivity to everyday sounds that most people find tolerable or even pleasant. Individuals with hyperacusias experience discomfort, pain, or even physical distress upon exposure to even moderate or low levels of sound. The condition can affect one or both ears and may be temporary or permanent.
Symptoms of hyperacusias may vary in severity depending on the individual and can include discomfort, pain, irritation, dizziness, or difficulty concentrating when exposed to certain sounds. The sounds that trigger such reactions can range from common noises like voices, music, or household appliances to more specific frequencies or pitches. Certain environmental factors or stimuli, such as loud noises, sudden blasts, or busy places, may exacerbate the symptoms.
Hyperacusias can be caused by various factors, including exposure to loud noises, head trauma, certain medications, genetic predisposition, and certain medical conditions such as Meniere's disease. Treatment options for hyperacusias can include sound therapy, hearing protection, cognitive therapy, relaxation techniques, or the use of hearing aids or assistive devices to provide relief and minimize discomfort.
It is important for individuals experiencing symptoms of hyperacusias to seek medical attention and evaluation from a healthcare professional or audiologist to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management strategies.
The word "hyperacusis" is derived from two Greek roots: "hyper", meaning excessive or beyond, and "acousis", meaning hearing. The suffix "-ia" is added to form the noun "hyperacusias", which refers to the condition of having hyperacusis.