auditory hyperesthesia

noun

Meaning

An abnormal increase in sensitivity to sound, where everyday noises are perceived as intensely loud or physically uncomfortable.

Examples

  • The patient was diagnosed with auditory hyperesthesia after reporting that even soft whispers caused him physical distress.
  • Individuals experiencing auditory hyperesthesia often wear noise-canceling headphones to manage their environment.

Synonyms: sensitivity, hyperacusis, phonophobia, hypersensitivity