Sound sensitivity (Hyperacusis)

Sound sensitivity may also be known as hyperacusis. Each child may have different sound sensitivities and have different reactions to these than other children.

What causes sound sensitivity?

• Behavioural reactions. Reactions to sounds are often behavioural and can be a normal phase for children to go through especially when younger. Sound sensitivity can trigger a fight or flight response. When a sound is loud, sudden or scary it can be natural to react to it but often as adults we are able to understand what the sound is, where it comes from, is likely temporary and isn’t dangerous. A child will likely need support to have this level of awareness and overcome these factors.
• Other medical conditions, additional sensory issues or complex needs.
• Glue ear (middle ear fluid). This potentially may have caused a temporary hearing loss. When the glue ear clears and hearing returns to normal, these normal sound levels may be perceived as louder as the child is not used to them. The child will likely adjust gradually.

Types of sounds

The types of sounds children can find sensitive may vary, but generally the sounds are likely to be loud and unpredictable. Common sound sensitivities include:

• Sirens
• Vacuum Cleaners
• Hand/ HairDryers
• Balloons popping
• Fireworks
• Washing machines
• Power drills
• Kitchen extractor fans

This is not an exhaustive list and it can vary for each child.

How to help to your child

Mostly, sound sensitivities improve over time as the child gets older and there is no medical treatment for it. It is important that if support is put in place this is consistent with parents, carers and teachers.

• Reassure and Relax – When your child hears a loud sound, you can help them by offering reassurance and explaining what the sound is, where it is coming from. This can help to reassure them that the sound is not dangerous. Although reassurance for the recognition of sound sensitivity is important it is advised not to focus too much on it.
• Desensitisation – You may want to use videos of the sounds that the child finds sensitive and play it at a low volume, gradually you could increase the sound in small steps over a period of time to help get used to the sound without causing distress. Also by allowing your child to take control and allowing them to make the noise may reduce their reaction. It is VERY important not to rush this process and allow plenty of opportunities for the child to get used to the sound over time.

If your child’s sound sensitivity continues, it can be helpful to relax by engaging their focus on something else. E.g Play I spy on a busy road or add funny faces to the vacuum. When a child is having fun, they are often more relaxed and their focus is not on the sound sensitivity that is making them anxious.

Useful tips:

• The use of ear protection, ear plugs or defenders are not recommended when a child displays sensitivities to sound, except for situations in loud noises such as fireworks and concerts. This ensures that ear defenders are not overused and can continue to be helpful during those critical events that are difficult for the child to manage.
• Ear defenders or ear plugs can deprive the wearer from exposure to everyday sounds. It is important that the child is able to have natural exposure to different everyday sounds to develop appropriate reactions.
• If these are already in use as a coping strategy it is recommended to reduce their use gradually, whilst using some tips mentioned to help minimise any of the anxieties. For example, by reducing the amount of time ear defenders are being used for or by pre warning the child of a sound that is going to be heard.
• When taken off, place the ear defenders where the child can reach them and put them on if they need them. This will reduce anxiety that the child might experience and enables them to have control over their hearing environment.

Additional support

It may be beneficial to also discuss these concerns with the Health Visitor, GP or School Nurse if concerns persist. If your child has additional medical needs then their Paediatrician may also be able to offer support.