Tinnitus and Hyperacusis

Abstract

Tinnitus and hyperacusis are two of the more challenging issues in audiology, Patients can be desperate, and there are no cures. Nonetheless, several forms of treatment are available, and audiologists possess a good educational foundation to provide the diagnosis and management of tinnitus and hyperacusis based on their knowledge of hearing loss, hearing measurement, and rehabilitation. We advocate a flexible approach, as appropriate, that includes collaboration with informed psychologists and physicians. Tinnitus has been defined by McFadden (1982) as follows: • A perception of sound (it must be heard) • Involuntary (not produced intentionally) • Originates in the head (not an externally produced sound) Hyperacusis docs not have a single widely accepted definition. Hyperacusis can involve perceptions and reactions of loudness, annoyance, and fear to acoustic stimuli. The link between the two conditions is not clear, but Tyler and Conrad-Armes (1983) noted that tinnitus is often accompanied by hyperacusis, and many current sound therapy protocols treat tinnitus and hyperacusis in parallel.