Noise sensitivity.

[barney77]

I'm not sure if this is the place to post, but here goes anyway.

I'm a tinnitus sufferer, and I'm doing my best to prevent further damage.

I've noticed that I'm very sensitive to noise lately.
For example in a normal noise setting if a slightly louder than normal noise occurs ( ads on tv, phone ringing etc) it really startles me and at times actually hurts.

I realise this isn't normal and I'm taking steps to get tested.

I'm basically wondering if anyone else has had this issue, and from experience could it be related to the tinnitus?

Cheers.

[elsewhere]

It's called hyperacusis and yes, it's related to and very common with tinnitus sufferers. It's treated with retraining therapy that will gradually make your ear and brain tolerate the sounds again.

[barney77]

Originally Posted by elsewhere

It's called hyperacusis and yes, it's related to and very common with tinnitus sufferers. It's treated with retraining therapy that will gradually make your ear and brain tolerate the sounds again.

Thanks for the feedback (pardon the pun).
Do you know what the retraining therapy involves?

[elsewhere]

Originally Posted by barney77

Thanks for the feedback (pardon the pun).
Do you know what the retraining therapy involves?

Basically it's about listening to noise. A friend of mine has this condition and he was told to listen to soft noise (like a radio tuned between stations), avoid using earplugs and if possible, stay out of really quiet environments. I don't know any more than that though, a visit to a specialist might be in order. Good luck!

[barney77]

Originally Posted by elsewhere

Basically it's about listening to noise. A friend of mine has this condition and he was told to listen to soft noise (like a radio tuned between stations), avoid using earplugs and if possible, stay out of really quiet environments. I don't know any more than that though, a visit to a specialist might be in order. Good luck!

Thanks mate.
Greatly appreciated.