1. Synopsis:

This session will focus on types of hyperacusis, methods of treatment, and the scientific bases for the novel transitional intervention. That intervention will be described in detail, including elements of the protocol. The results of the novel transitional intervention will be described.

2. Background:

• Definition of Hyperacusis
• Comorbidities
• Neural involvement
• Risks associated with sound avoidance behaviors
• Experience-dependent central auditory plasticity due to deprivation and augmentation

3. Therapeutic Goals:

• Increase comfortable and voluntary exposure to normal sound levels
• Restore aspects of normal daily living

4. Methods:

• Structured Counseling: education about hyperacusis and the rationale, objectives, and goals of the transitional intervention.
• Sound Therapy Device: Behind-the-ear, custom attenuating earpiece, unity gain, loudness suppression, and sound therapy
• Experiment Protocol: 12 participants, monthly visits for 6 months, sound therapy for at least 8 hours per day.

5. Results:

• Primary outcome measure – change in the output limiting setting as indexed by a judgment of “loud but OK” in response to aided running speech
• Average treatment benefit was 34 dB expansion of dynamic range.
• Benefit confirmed by multiple standard instruments

Learning Objectives:

• Define the hyperacusis condition.
• Differentiate treatment methods combined into a novel therapeutic approach.
• Describe the novel treatment and its positive impacts on participants