If you have difficulty tolerating specific sounds, you may have misophonia. This condition results in feelings of anger, intensity or disgust that are often overwhelming.
Research indicates that approximately one in five people may be affected by misophonia. If you think you may be among this number, Sound Advice Audiology can help ensure your symptoms do not interfere with your daily life.
What Are Symptoms of Misophonia?
Misophonia can cause:
- Emotional reactions like anger, irritation or panic
- Physical reactions like sweating, increased blood pressure, muscle tension or chest pressure
- Anxiety or depression because of ongoing sound sensitivity
Some people can’t control the emotions the trigger sounds cause them to feel but can control their responses. Other people are unable to control either. In the most severe cases, people may be unable to do certain things or remain in particular environments.
What Are Common Misophonia Triggers?
While some people only have one sound that triggers their misophonia, others have multiple trigger sounds.
Sounds that often trigger misophonia include:
- Chewing
- Pen clicking
- Tapping
- Throat clearing or sniffing
What Causes Misophonia?
Though the exact cause of misophonia is unknown, experts suspect it may be a combination of genetics and differences in brain structure.
How Is Misophonia Managed?
Though there is no cure for misophonia, there are options to help you manage your symptoms.
Patients with misophonia may benefit from sound therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy or lifestyle changes. Our provider at Sound Advice Audiology will partner with you to determine which options will be the most helpful at minimizing misophonia’s impact on your life.
Call Sound Advice Audiology for more information or to schedule an appointment.
