Hyperacusis
What is hyperacusis?
In hyperacusis normal sounds are perceived as painful and extremely disturbing.
Because the cause of hyperacusis is still unclear, further research into its mechanism is therefore necessary. The mechanism of action is probably comparable to that of tinnitus.
An understandable, but completely wrong reaction from people suffering from hyperacusis is that one will wear earplugs on a daily basis. By closing the ears of ordinary daily sounds, the severity of the hypersensitivity increases. It is necessary to re-expose the hearing system to sounds. The central processing (through the brains) of the stimuli can thus normalize again.
Misophonia
Some specific sounds can evoke feelings of disgust or irritation.
When these negative feelings take on extreme proportions when hearing a specific sound, this is called 'misophonia'.
Unlike hyperacusis, this is a very specific type of sound, e.g. smacking, breathing, and swallowing.
How can hyperacusis be treated?
When the cause of hyperacusis can be determined, the treatment will focus on treatment. Often the reason for the development of hyperacusis is not so unambiguous.
By influencing the functioning of the brain with neuromodulation, we can, in a number of cases, decrease the hyperacusis symptoms. A qEEG can help us determine which neuromodulation technique could have the most effect.
