Hashir Aazh and Brian C. J. Moore and Deepak Prasher
Hyperacusis is a condition associated with irritation and discomfort from environmental sounds. A person with hyperacusis is bothered by sounds that are generally acceptable to others. Hyperacusis has been reported with people various pathologies as well as for people with no hearing loss or health condition. It is a common condition in children, especially children with Williams Syndrome, autistic spectrum disorder and tinnitus. The exact mechanisms underlying hyperacusis are unknown. However, it has been hypothesised that it may be a consequence of abnormally high gain applied by the central auditory system. Adverse emotional and behavioural reactions to the various sounds in the classroom may be experienced by school age children with hyperacusis. Audiological assessment and management of hyperacusis are briefly discussed in this article.
