Hyperacusis
At Colorado Tinnitus and Hearing Center, we offer comprehensive treatment programs for hyperacusis—a condition characterized by decreased sound tolerance that causes everyday noises to seem uncomfortably loud or painful. Our doctors of audiology use specialized, evidence-based approaches to help reduce sound sensitivity and improve quality of life for those affected by this challenging condition.
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Relief from Sound Sensitivity
Hyperacusis can significantly impact daily life, causing distress in environments most people find comfortable and leading to isolation, anxiety, and avoidance behaviors. Our treatment approach combines sound therapy, counseling, and personalized management strategies to gradually desensitize your auditory system, reduce sound-related anxiety, and help you participate more fully in everyday activities. We understand the unique challenges of living with hyperacusis and provide compassionate care backed by specialized training and extensive clinical experience.
Our Hyperacusis Treatment Process
Our comprehensive approach to hyperacusis focuses on understanding your specific sound sensitivities and developing personalized treatment strategies.
Diagnostic Evaluation
We conduct specialized tests to assess your sound tolerance levels and determine the severity and specific characteristics of your hyperacusis.
Treatment Planning
Based on your evaluation, we develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses both the physiological and psychological aspects of hyperacusis.
Sound Therapy Implementation
We introduce carefully calibrated sound therapy to gradually desensitize your auditory system to everyday sounds, often using specialized sound generators.
Ongoing Support and Adaptation
Throughout treatment, we provide regular follow-up care to monitor progress, adjust your treatment program, and provide strategies for managing challenging situations.
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Benefits of Hyperacusis Treatment
Our specialized approach to hyperacusis treatment draws from evidence-based methods designed to address both the physiological and psychological aspects of sound sensitivity. For patients with both hyperacusis and hearing loss, we can provide devices that address both conditions simultaneously. Our audiologists have specialized training in hyperacusis management, with Dr. Kalmbach having attended the Tinnitus & Hyperacusis Therapy Masterclass at the University of London and the International Conference on Hyperacusis.
With proper treatment, patients typically experience gradual improvement in sound tolerance levels for everyday environments, reduced anxiety and physical discomfort related to sound exposure.
Hyperacusis Treatment Options
We offer several evidence-based approaches to managing hyperacusis, tailored to your specific needs:
Sound therapy using specialized sound generators to gradually recalibrate auditory sensitivity
Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) principles adapted specifically for hyperacusis management
Cognitive behavioral techniques to address anxiety and fear responses to sound
Counseling and education on environmental modifications and gradual exposure strategies
Hyperacusis can result from various factors, including noise exposure, head injury, certain medications, viral infections, or disorders affecting the auditory system. In many cases, it develops alongside tinnitus. Sometimes the cause cannot be identified, but treatment remains effective regardless of the origin.
No. While some people naturally have more sensitive hearing than others, hyperacusis involves an abnormal intolerance to ordinary environmental sounds that most people find comfortable. It often includes pain or significant distress in response to these sounds.
Treatment duration varies depending on severity, but most patients see gradual improvement over 6-18 months of consistent therapy. Some notice initial improvements within a few weeks, though complete habituation typically takes longer.
Our goal is actually to reduce dependence on ear protection. While we understand protection may be necessary in truly loud environments, overuse of protection can worsen hyperacusis by making the auditory system even more sensitive. We work with you to gradually reduce protective behaviors.
Many patients experience significant improvement in sound tolerance with proper treatment. While some may always have slightly increased sensitivity compared to others, most can return to normal daily activities without distress or discomfort.
Yes, for many patients with both conditions, hyperacusis treatment often helps reduce tinnitus distress as well. The habituation processes for both conditions share similar mechanisms, and we can address both simultaneously.
Common Questions About Hyperacusis Treatment
We understand you may have questions about hyperacusis and available treatments. Here are answers to questions we frequently receive from patients.
Specialized Hyperacusis Treatment Services
At Colorado Tinnitus and Hearing Center, our evidence-based approach to hyperacusis reflects our commitment to addressing the often misunderstood challenges of sound sensitivity disorders. Our doctors of audiology have specialized training in hyperacusis management and work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment strategies that address both the physiological and psychological aspects of the condition.
If everyday sounds have become uncomfortably loud or painful, causing you to avoid activities you once enjoyed, contact our office at 303-534-0163 to schedule a consultation. With proper treatment and support, hyperacusis can improve significantly, allowing you to return to a fuller, more engaged life without fear of sound.
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Auditory Training
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Misophonia
We offer specialized treatment for misophonia using proven approaches to reduce emotional reactions to trigger sounds and develop effective coping strategies.
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Tinnitus Treatment
We provide advanced, evidence-based tinnitus management through multiple treatment approaches including Lenire, Neuromonics, Heart Math, and Modern Tinnitus.
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