Hyperacusis

Everyday sounds can feel unusually loud, uncomfortable, or painful.

What is hyperacusis?

Hyperacusis is a reduced tolerance to everyday sounds. Sounds other people find comfortable may feel excessively loud, distressing, or painful. It can affect one or both ears and varies in severity. Read the source ↗

If sound causes pain, seek individual advice from a hearing specialist. Do not push through a painful sound practice.

Preparing to discuss your symptoms

If sound is affecting daily life, bring examples and questions to a qualified clinician.

  • Describe your experience in your own words: what happens, when it happens, and how it affects your day.
  • Bring your questions to a qualified clinician. They can help you understand symptoms and discuss appropriate support.
  • You do not need to reproduce a distressing sound to describe its effect.

Where Haelan fits

Haelan focuses on education and everyday wellbeing for hyperacusis and misophonia, with additional content about tinnitus and fear of sound. It brings lessons, reflection, breathing exercises, guided meditations, and optional sound tools into one app.

The app cannot assess your hearing, determine the cause of symptoms, or tell you which sound practices are suitable for you. Sound tools are optional; stop if they cause pain or discomfort and seek individual advice.

Explore our approach

Further reading

ASHA: Tinnitus and Hyperacusis ↗

Preparing for a hearing appointment