Why do everyday sounds like jingling coins or chewing sometimes feel physically painful?

Health · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Hyperacusis is an abnormal intolerance to ordinary sounds, turning common noises into sources of distress or pain. While the exact biological cause remains unknown, this condition often appears alongside other health issues, significantly impacting sleep, social participation, and daily functioning for those who experience it.

Hyperacusis manifests as an increased sensitivity to sound, where environmental noises that most people ignore become overwhelming or even agonizing. Symptoms vary widely, ranging from loudness hyperacusis—where sounds seem abnormally amplified—to noxacusis, which involves physical pain or ear discomfort. Some individuals also experience emotional reactions like anger or anxiety in response to specific sounds. Because definitions of the condition vary, prevalence estimates remain inconsistent, though it is frequently observed as a comorbidity in patients with chronic conditions like tension-type headaches or tinnitus.

The mechanisms behind this sensitivity are not fully understood, though researchers suspect dysfunction in the brain, inner ear, or middle ear. In some cases, damage to the stapedius or tensor tympani muscles—which normally dampen sound vibrations—may be involved. Other potential triggers include acoustic trauma from loud noises, head injuries, or specific medical conditions such as Ménière's disease, Lyme disease, and Bell's palsy. Certain genetic mutations, such as those involving the GJB2 gene, or the use of specific medications, have also been linked to increased sound sensitivity.

Managing hyperacusis often requires a multidisciplinary approach. While there is no single cure, treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy can help reduce anxiety, and sound therapy—using controlled white noise—may help patients gradually regain tolerance to everyday environments. Experts warn against the constant use of earplugs or total avoidance of noise, as these habits can paradoxically increase sensitivity over time. For patients with comorbid conditions, addressing the underlying headache or tinnitus burden is a critical component of clinical care, as these factors are independently associated with the severity of sound intolerance.

General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.

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