Hyperacusis CausesOccupational noise exposure increases one's risk of developing hyperacusis and tinnitus. Noise exposure could possibly be a leading cause of hyperacusis but more research data is needed. Intense sound or an acoustic shock can result in hyperacusis. This intense impulse seems to trigger what is known as a tonic tensor tympani syndrome. This is an involuntary, anxiety-driven reflex that activates the tensor tympani muscle in the middle ear resulting in frequent spasms being encountered. Other symptoms can include sensations of eardrum tension or fluttering, trigeminal nerve irritation, and middle ear equalization difficulties.
|
Medical Conditions Associated with HyperacusisHyperacusis has many known causes and associations, however, in most clinical cases the cause remains unknown. The following are diseases and syndromes associated with hyperacusis: Bell's Palsy, Ramsay-Hunt Syndrome, Stapedectomy, Perilymphatic Fistula, Migraine, Depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Head Injury, Lyme Disease, Fibromyalgia, William's syndrome, Addison's Disease, Autism, Myasthenia Gravis, Middle Cerebral Aneurysm, and Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) High Pressure. |
Hyperacusis Testing and Medical EvaluationThe intent of the medical evaluation is to make a differential diagnosis of possible associated or underlying disease processes. A complete neurotologic examination should be conducted as well as evaluation for temporomandibular joint dysfunction, which has been found to be associated with hyperacusis. Laboratory Evaluation Blood testing should include a whole blood count and include measures of sodium, potassium, thyroid stimulating hormone, and free thyroxine to assess for infections and endocrinological diseases. Deficiencies in magnesium and vitamin B6 should be explored. Serological tests (measure specific levels of antibodies in the blood) can help diagnose diseases associated with hyperacusis such as syphilis, herpes zoster, and Lyme disease. |
Category 1
|
Category 2
|
Category 3
|
Category 4
|