Do I Need to See a Doctor for My Sound Sensitivity Issues?

Do I need to see a doctor? Which specialty should I see?

I have been using active noise-canceling headphones daily for at least five years.
Initially, it was recommended by a colleague that wearing headphones while programming could help with focus and efficiency.
When I tried on the over-ear headphones in the store, the world became very calm, and I felt so good that I purchased them on the spot.
After returning to my apartment by the roadside, I found the sound of passing cars disturbing, so I gradually started wearing the headphones at home for longer periods, even sometimes while sleeping, which helped to reduce the buzzing sounds from the refrigerator, air conditioning, and so on.
Then I encountered active noise-canceling headphones and realized that I could sleep soundly on airplanes.
I also noticed that these headphones were excellent at normalizing everyday surrounding sounds, as people speak at varying volumes and pitches.
Wearing the headphones did not affect my ability to converse, nor did it hinder others from whispering to me, and I grew increasingly fond of them.
So when my active noise-canceling headphones began to wear out from prolonged use, I didn't hesitate to buy a new pair immediately.
At this point, I have noticed that I seem to be more sensitive to sounds than those around me.
However, in the beginning, I didn't see this sensitivity as a problem; instead, I only noticed the benefits: during meetings, I could almost replay what everyone said like a recording, and when switching between different languages, I naturally paid attention to the intonation in others' speech, which was quite helpful for my spoken language practice.
Although it was somewhat troubling, this tendency to replay conversations in my mind after speaking with someone made it difficult for me to fall asleep, as I would lie in bed for hours unable to doze off.
Even canned laughter from variety shows I had watched would automatically replay in my mind, but I thought I could just avoid watching TV before bed.
When living alone, it was relatively easy to filter out and manage these sound sources.
However, when I moved back home to live with my family, the situation seemed to worsen with the sounds of children running around, frequent laughter, family members moving about in slippers, opening and closing doors, tidying up, and the clattering of pots and pans.
At night, I would wear earplugs along with my active noise-canceling headphones, but even after several hours of tossing and turning, I still couldn't sleep.
I became frustrated with this situation, genuinely unable to understand why others did not perceive these actions as loud.
I even seriously considered soundproofing my room, changed rooms, redecorated, and used my wardrobe to create physical barriers to sound sources, finally finding a suitable arrangement for my bedroom.
However, by this time, it wasn't just at home; the same sensitivity extended to environments outside my home, meaning that interactions with family, colleagues, friends, and even strangers could easily startle me.
My reactions to being startled were so intense that they felt akin to someone deliberately trying to scare me, which left both the person who startled me and myself feeling helpless.
I have tried to live without relying on noise-canceling headphones, but my ears have become so sensitive that sounds feel like stimuli.
Certain sounds I dislike, such as the tearing of tape, can cause unbearable pain in my ears and even lead to headaches.
Lying in bed, I can hear sounds that do not belong in my room, like the vibrations of a phone, the sound of someone showering, or flushing the toilet, and it seems the only way to avoid these sounds is to sleep or continue wearing headphones to lower the frequency to a level I can ignore.
I have also wondered if I am putting too much pressure on myself and have been undergoing weekly psychological counseling for over a year.
While it is not specifically focused on my hearing issues, I feel that I have made significant progress regarding stress and emotional fluctuations.
However, I still cannot escape wearing headphones and the overwhelming reactions I have to being startled by others throughout my day.
Therefore, if possible, I would like someone to tell me if this situation requires seeing a doctor, which specialty I should consult, and if there are hospitals that can help with this.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/08

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology

Having heightened auditory sensitivity and good hearing can be a blessing, a gift from above.
However, it is essential to adjust one's mindset to live a stable life.
While anxiolytic medications can help calm restless emotions, it is not always necessary to take them if one can manage their feelings independently.
Wishing you peace.

Reply Date: 2020/05/08

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing significant discomfort due to sound sensitivity, which is impacting your daily life and sleep. Your situation is not uncommon, especially among individuals who may have heightened auditory sensitivity or conditions such as hyperacusis, which is an increased sensitivity to normal environmental sounds. This can lead to feelings of irritation, anxiety, or even anger when exposed to sounds that others may find tolerable.

Given your description, it seems that your sound sensitivity has escalated over time, particularly after using noise-canceling headphones and earplugs extensively. While these devices can provide relief, they may also contribute to a heightened awareness of sound when they are not in use, as your auditory system becomes more attuned to the sounds around you. This phenomenon can create a cycle where you feel increasingly overwhelmed by noise, leading to a reliance on these devices for comfort.

You mentioned that you have been undergoing psychological counseling for over a year, which is a positive step towards managing stress and emotional fluctuations. However, if you find that your sound sensitivity continues to disrupt your life, it may be beneficial to seek further evaluation from a medical professional. Here are some recommendations:
1. Consult an Audiologist: An audiologist specializes in hearing and balance disorders. They can conduct a comprehensive hearing assessment to determine if there are any underlying issues contributing to your sound sensitivity. They may also provide strategies for managing your sensitivity, such as sound therapy or desensitization techniques.

2. Visit an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Specialist: An ENT doctor can evaluate your auditory system and rule out any medical conditions that may be causing or exacerbating your symptoms. They can also assess for conditions like eustachian tube dysfunction, which can lead to feelings of fullness or pressure in the ears.

3. Consider a Mental Health Professional: Since you are already seeing a counselor, it may be helpful to discuss your sound sensitivity with them. They can help you explore any underlying anxiety or emotional responses related to sound and work with you on coping strategies. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been effective for many individuals dealing with sensory sensitivities.

4. Explore Sound Sensitivity Programs: Some clinics offer specialized programs for individuals with sound sensitivity, including hyperacusis. These programs may involve gradual exposure to sounds in a controlled environment, helping you to build tolerance over time.

5. Lifestyle Adjustments: While you have made significant changes to your living environment to reduce noise, consider incorporating relaxation techniques such as mindfulness or meditation, which can help manage anxiety and improve your overall response to stressors, including sound.

In summary, while your sound sensitivity is a valid concern that warrants attention, it is essential to approach it from multiple angles—medical, psychological, and lifestyle. Seeking help from an audiologist and an ENT specialist, in conjunction with your ongoing psychological support, can provide a comprehensive approach to managing your symptoms. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are professionals who can help you navigate these challenges effectively.

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