How Information About Hyperacusis Helps Its Victims

Perhaps the most disquieting thing about the onset of excessive hearing sensitivity is that most people don’t know what is happening to them.  Sounds suddenly seem louder than they should.  They can comprehend that a quiet fan should not hurt their ears.  When it does, and all the other noises in their world are exaggerated too, they realize something is wrong.  This is when they need information about hyperacusis.

Probably the first place people go for such information is to family or friends.  Unless these people have dealt with it before, they most likely can shed no light on the subject.  Most people will eventually go to the doctor.  That physician may or may not be helpful. 

If the doctor’s advice doesn’t help, he or she may refer the patient to an audiologist.  This specialist in hearing and structures of the ears will do tests to gain information about the patient’s hyperacusis. 

If it is determined that treatment is needed, some form of desensitization therapy will likely be suggested.  In most of these hyperacusis treatments, a key factor is the involvement of a counselor.  This counselor is not an ordinary psychological therapist.  He or she is made available to the patient to discuss the treatment.  Detailed analysis of the disorder is also done.  This comes in the form of information about hyperacusis given to the patient.

This information about hyperacusis helps the patient to come to terms with the condition.  It also allays his or her fears about actual hearing loss or ear damage.  Other factors are discussed as well.  The possibility of developing tinnitus is discussed, so that ear noises and ringing in the ears will not come as an unexpected or threatening surprise. 

Treatment is discussed, too, and the patient is given information about hyperacusis and how it can be lessened or eliminated altogether.  All of this knowledge will make it easier for the patient to stick with his or her commitment to an often long and difficult process.

If the person still wants more information about hyperacusis, there are many avenues by which to get it.  There are several organizations which are dedicated to helping those with hyperacusis and other hearing disorders.  Some of these are:  the American Tinnitus Association, the University of Maryland Tinnitus and Hyperacusis Center, and the International Tinnitus and Hyperacusis Society.  Information about Dr. Jastebroff will lead to information about hypercusis, as he developed TRT. Many websites also carry information about hyperacusis.  

At any rate, the important thing is to find out as much information about hyperacusis as possible.  It is not just interesting; it can also lead to better treatment.