From the Guidelines
The treatment of hyperacusis should involve sound therapy as the primary approach, as recommended by clinicians for patients with persistent tinnitus and sound sensitivity issues 1. This treatment strategy is based on the principle of desensitizing the auditory system to certain sound frequencies and volumes.
- Sound therapy typically involves the use of devices that generate low-level broadband noise, which can be customized to each patient's specific needs.
- The goal of sound therapy is to help the patient become less sensitive to certain sounds and to reduce the discomfort associated with hyperacusis.
- According to the clinical practice guideline on tinnitus, sound therapy may be recommended to patients with persistent tinnitus and sound sensitivity issues 1. Some key considerations for sound therapy in hyperacusis treatment include:
- The use of sound generators or hearing aids with noise features for 4-8 hours daily over several months.
- The importance of gradual and consistent exposure to sound therapy to achieve optimal results.
- The potential benefits of combining sound therapy with other treatment approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or lifestyle modifications. In terms of specific treatment protocols, sound therapy should be tailored to each patient's individual needs and preferences, with the goal of reducing sound sensitivity and improving quality of life 1. Overall, the treatment of hyperacusis requires a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach that incorporates sound therapy, lifestyle modifications, and other evidence-based strategies to achieve optimal outcomes and improve patient quality of life.
From the Research
Treatment Options for Hyperacusis
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been shown to be an effective treatment for hyperacusis, with studies demonstrating significant reductions in loudness discomfort levels and hyperacusis symptoms 2, 3, 4.
- A multimodal treatment program including CBT, education, coping strategies, and relaxation techniques can be highly effective in reducing hyperacusis symptoms and accompanying distress 2.
- Sound therapy is also used to desensitize patients with hyperacusis, although more research is needed to understand its use in clinical practice and the different types of devices used 5.
Effectiveness of CBT for Hyperacusis
- CBT has been found to be a promising treatment for hyperacusis, with moderate to high effect sizes and significant improvements in loudness discomfort levels and quality of life 4.
- Both psychologist- and audiologist-delivered CBT approaches have demonstrated significant improvements in reducing the impact of hyperacusis on patients' quality of life 6.
- Guided internet-based CBT has also shown positive outcomes, although unguided internet-based CBT faces challenges such as higher dropout rates 6.
Future Research Directions
- Further research is needed to compare the effectiveness of psychologist- and audiologist-delivered CBT, explore hybrid models that combine face-to-face and digital interventions, and address challenges with internet-based CBT 6.
- Incorporating neuroimaging and physiological measures in future randomized controlled trials could provide objective insights into the neural mechanisms underlying symptom improvement 6.
- Identifying characteristics of non-responders to CBT may guide the development of more tailored therapeutic approaches 6.