Misophonia and hyperacusis are conditions that involve heightened sensitivity to sound. However, they have distinct conditions with different triggers and treatments.
It’s helpful to understand the differences between the two to seek the right support and symptom management. Consider the following about the conditions.
About Misophonia
Misophonia is a condition where specific sounds trigger strong emotional responses such as anger, anxiety, irritation or disgust. These reactions are often tied to everyday sounds that others may not even notice.
Common trigger sounds include:
- Chewing or slurping
- Pen clicking
- Lip-smacking
- Breathing or sniffing
The response to these sounds is emotional rather than physical discomfort, and it can cause social distress or avoidance behaviors.
About Hyperacusis
Hyperacusis is characterized by an increased sensitivity to normal environmental sounds, which may feel painfully loud or overwhelming.
Examples of sounds that may cause discomfort include:
- Running water
- Car engines
- Dish clatter at restaurants like The Shed
- Everyday conversation
Unlike misophonia, hyperacusis usually causes physical discomfort or even pain. It may be linked to hearing loss, head injuries or exposure to loud noise.
The degree of hyperacusis pain depends on the volume of the sound; louder sounds create a more painful reaction. Hyperacusis pain can appear as pressure or ringing in the ears.
How They Differ
Misophonia and hyperacusis are both forms of sensitive hearing, and misophonia can coexist with hyperacusis. However, misophonia causes an emotional response while hyperacusis activates the auditory system, causing physical discomfort.
Managing the Symptoms
If you think you may have either of these conditions, it’s important to schedule time with a hearing specialist. A hearing specialist can help diagnose your condition and provide symptom management options.
Misophonia can be managed with therapy, technology and adaptation techniques. For example, white noise machines and headphones can be used to mask misophonia triggers and help to distract from them.
Hyperacusis can be managed using sound therapy, tinnitus retraining therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and in severe cases surgery. There is no cure for hyperacusis but understanding the cause may help to manage symptoms over time.
Though misophonia and hyperacusis may appear similar, their causes and effects differ. Recognizing the type of sound sensitivity you’re experiencing is the first step in finding relief and improving your quality of life.
To learn more about both conditions, schedule a consultation with Southwestern Hearing & Balance today.