Reduced sound tolerance is an atypical experience of discomfort to sound exposure that can range from annoyance to severe disability. There are three main types: hyperacusis is discomfort to normal or loud sounds; misophonia/phonophobia is discomfort to specific sounds; and recruitment is discomfort to loud sounds due to hearing loss. Therapies may be necessary to retrain the brain to process sounds normally and increase tolerance. Treatment options include amplification, sound generators, and therapies for retraining tolerance.

1. Reduced Sound Tolerance
Reduced Sound Tolerance is an atypical experience
of discomfort to sound exposure. The severity of
this reduction in acceptance of sounds that would
otherwise be agreeable to those with normal
tolerance levels can range from annoyance to
severe disability. Some patients may even alter or stop daily activities due
to the great sound discomfort experienced.
There are three main types of intolerance: hyperacusis, misophonia
/phonophobia, and recruitment. Hyperacusis is discomfort to normal or loud
sounds, and occurs in those with normal hearing sensitivity.
Misophonia/Phonophobia is discomfort to specific sounds, even at a soft or
normal volume. Misophonia characterizes those with a great dislike for
sound, while phonophobia describes those who fear the sound. Recruitment
is an unusual discomfort to loud sounds due to a reduced dynamic range of
hearing in those with hearing loss.
Discomfort in these patients is not imaginary! This intolerance is due to
changes in the auditory system or in the central auditory processing centers
in the brain. Therapies may be necessary to alter the way the brain
processes incoming signals. The brain must be “retrained” to tolerance.
Treatment options may include: amplification (in those with hearing loss),
silence avoidance by creating an auditory rich environment, wearable sound
Physician Hearing Centers
(440) 550-4179

2. generators, and retraining therapies typically used for those suffering from
tinnitus. Many patients suffering from intolerance to sound also experience
sound inside their ears, also known as tinnitus. Ask your hearing healthcare
provider about your options for your specific needs. Start improving your
sound tolerance today!
For More Information Call Us at 440-550-4179 or Visit
http://www.hearing-aids-mayfield-heights-oh.com/
Physician Hearing Centers
(440) 550-4179