Reduced sound tolerance is a pathological condition for which tolerance to sounds is so reduced that normal tolerable everyday sounds induce discomfort. This general term encompasses different forms of reactions and responses to sounds including hypersensitivity to loud sounds (loudness hyperacusis), sound-triggering pain (pain hyperacusis) and aversion to specific sounds (misophonia). According to epidemiological studies, around 10 to 15% of the general population suffers from these disorders. They can greatly affect the quality of life, and the socio-economic integration of individuals affected. During this presentation, an overview of the different forms of reduced sound tolerance will be described and discussed. An up-to-date review of the current diagnostic methods will be presented. Finally, the state of knowledge regarding current and future therapeutic options will be briefly discussed.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify the key characteristics of various types of reduced sound tolerance conditions.
2. Evaluate the methods used to assess reduced sound tolerance conditions.
3. Explore potential therapeutic approaches for managing reduced sound tolerance.