How do you treat misophonia yourself?
Humans are able to hear the many sounds in the world. Either natural or artificial sound, everyone has their own kind of interpretations of how sounds make them feel. Some sounds spark joy and some even cause chaos or anxiety. The ability to hear sounds normally are things that humans often take for granted. In this DoctorOnCall’s article, we will be learning about one of the issues that interfere with the hearing function known as misophonia.
Misophonia is a disorder characterised by sound that triggers emotional or physiological responses that some might say is reasonable. For example, while normally humans usually would not even notice small sounds such as chewing or breathing, people with misophonia may find this sound very disturbing to the extent of having anxiety symptoms such as chest pressure. It is worth noting that it is common for people to be irritated with some everyday sounds but those with misophonia find most sounds very irritating.
The term misophonia itself means “hatred of sound” or sound rage but does not directly mean all sounds are problematic for those with this condition. This condition is also referred to as selective sound sensitivity syndrome. While misophonia seems like a hearing issue, it is categorised as psychiatric disorder due to the mental suffering experienced by patients and the various treatments associated with the context of psychiatry. Misophonia is sometimes associated with visual triggers with the image directly related to the trigger sound such as watching someone else eating. Misophonia should not be mistaken as phobia as phobia itself is usually specific towards one thing, in this case, specific sound such as phonophobia which means specific phobia of loud sounds.
It is not known what can be causing misophonia but for sure it has nothing to do with ear problems. One of the theories said misophonia is caused by part of the general hyperreactivity syndrome to sensory stimuli. This means that the brain works in an abnormal way when interpreting sound and causes excessive reaction towards the sound. People with misophonia can perceive certain sounds as personal harassment that triggers anger. Misophonia associated with obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) may have a hard time in coping with impolite eating sounds and result in avoidance. Therefore, those with misophonia may have attached unconsciously meaning to the sound that is not harmful or meaningful.
Sound triggers are usually repetitive. Again, the sound was never about the volume or the acoustic pattern, but more to how it meant to the person. Eating sounds are most commonly reported. Other sounds reported are throat sounds such as throat clearing, nose whistling, heavy breathing, sounds of pigeon, chewing and keyboard or finger tapping sound.
Misophonia can occur at any age but often begins in late childhood or early teenage years. The main symptoms of misophonia are the extreme reaction such as anger or aggression to certain sounds. Reaction is varying as some may react mildly and even severely. This translates to some people may feel merely annoyed and irritated while some may even fly into full-blown rage. Physiological changes such as increased heart rate, blood pressure and body temperature can occur. Other signs include active avoidance towards the triggers such as avoiding social situations. A study found that more than 50% of those with misophonia can be diagnosed with OCPD.
Those with misophonia will find this condition is very disturbing and can take a big toll on their mental health. Thus, it is important for them to know what to do and what can be done to improve the condition. Even though misophonia may be difficult to be treated as there are no specific treatments, there are certainly things that can be done to help patients cope with the condition. Patients can try listening to music, calming sound or white noise when exposed to misophonic triggers. Using noise-cancelling headphones can be helpful. Distancing physically from the trigger sounds in public can also be good for the person with misophonia. However, it is important to still be getting support or help from a doctor and therapist. Getting treatment such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can greatly benefit the patient as they can learn how to manage their thoughts and techniques to cope with. Audiologists can provide sound therapy to neutralise triggering sound with the hope that the misophonic reaction can be diminished.
It can be concluded that misophonia is characterised by the strong negative emotional reactions to sounds that typically do not cause harm. Some even argue that misophonia should be regarded as a new mental disorder. Repetitive sounds are often the trigger. Misophonia can cause physical symptoms. This condition can be debilitating and affect a person’s daily life. Treatment often involves a multidisciplinary approach. Learning how to cope with this condition can help patients have a better life and feel better of themselves. Talking to friends and family about misophonia can help patients feel being heard and validated.
