Hyperacusis

Hyperacusis is a disorder in loudness perception. Patients suffering from hyperacusis may appear to be overly sensitive to a wide range of sounds, finding many noises unbearable and painfully loud. Hyperacusis should not be confused with recruitment, a different disorder that can be a normal consequence of hearing loss associated with abnormally rapid loudness increases.

The condition can affect both children and adults and is considered rare, occurring in an estimated 1 in 50,000 people. It can be caused by a number of factors. The most common is related to damage to the cochlea from exposure to loud noises such as those experienced at certain work environments, rock concerts, gunfire, air bag deployment in cars, fireworks, etc. In addition, hyperacusis often affects people who have sustained a head injury, as well as those with tinnitus, a common condition in which people hear a ringing noise in their ears. Other causes may include acoustic trauma, adverse reactions to medicine or surgeries, chronic ear infections, and autoimmune disorders.

The hyperacusis patient management program at UCSF Medical Center uses a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to treat patients with hyperacusis. Our experts work together to establish an individualized hyperacusis management plan designed for each patient's particular needs.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact: Audiology at (415) 353-2101.

Additional information and questionnaires for new patients also are available on the Web.

For help finding a doctor, contact our Physician Referral Service:

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated August 29, 2007