After a recent flight back from Australia, all noise – from the TV to the sound of someone’s voice – suddenly became an unbearable din that was quite distressing. What could have caused it?
Pete Plenge, via email.
Dr Martin Scurr replies: This sounds very like hyperacusis, where ordinary everyday sounds feel uncomfortable, intolerable and, at times, painful. Even noises such as the sounds of using pots and pans in the kitchen, passing traffic or TV and radio can cause considerable discomfort.
Those affected also often feel a sense of pressure in the ears.
While exactly what causes this hypersensitivity is not clear, it
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