What is Misophonia?

Q: Do I need one hearing aid or two?

If you have a significant hearing loss in both ears, you should be wearing two hearing aids. Here are the audiological reasons why: Localisation . The brain decodes information from both ears and compares and contrasts them. By analysing the miniscule time delays as well as the difference in loudness of each sound reaching the ears, the person is able to accurately locate a sound source. Simply put, if you have better hearing on one side than the other, you can't accurately tell what direction sounds are coming from. Less amplification required. A phenomena known as “binaural summation” means that the hearing aids can be set at a lower and more natural volume setting than than if you wore only one hearing aid. Head shadow effect. High frequencies, the part of your hearing that gives clarity and meaning to speech sounds, cannot bend around your head. Only low frequencies can. Therefore if someone is talking on your unaided side you are likely to hear that they are speaking, but be unable to tell what they have said. Noise reduction. The brain has it’s own built in noise reduction which is only really effective when it is receiving information from both ears. If only one ear is aided, even with the best hearing aid in the world, it will be difficult for you to hear in background noise as your brain is trying to retain all of the sounds (including background noise) rather than filtering it out. Sound quality. We are designed to hear in stereo. Only hearing from one side sounds a lot less natural to us.

Q: What are the benefits of rechargeable hearing aids?

For most people, the main benefit of a rechargeable hearing aid is simple convenience. We are used to plugging in our phones and other devices overnight for them to charge up. For anybody with poor dexterity or issues with their fingers, having a rechargeable aid makes a huge difference as normal hearing aid batteries are quite small and some people find them fiddly to change. One downside is that if you forget to charge your hearing aid, then it is a problem that can't be instantly fixed. For most a 30 minute charge will get you at least two or three hours of hearing, but if you are the type of person who is likely to forget to plug them in regularly then you're probably better off with standard batteries. Rechargeable aids are also a little bit bigger and are only available in behind the ear models. Finally, just like with a mobile phone, the amount of charge you get on day one is not going to be the same as you get a few years down the line. Be sure to ask what the policy is with the manufacturer warranty when it comes to replacing the battery.

Q: Are behind the ear aids better than in the ear aids?

For most people, the answer is yes. But it's never that simple. The majority of hearing problems affect the high frequencies a lot more than the low ones. Therefore open fitting hearing aids sound a lot more natural and ones that block your ears up can make your own voice sound like you are talking with your head in a bucket. Therefore in-ear aids tend to be less natural. However the true answer is we can't tell until we have had a look in your ears to assess the size of your ear canal, and until we have tested your hearing to see which frequencies are being affected. People with wider ear canals tend to have more flexibility, also there are open fitting modular CIC hearing aids now that do not block your ears. There is also the age old rule to consider, that a hearing aid will not help you if it's sat in the drawer gathering dust. If the only hearing aid you would be happy wearing is one that people can't see, then that's what you should get. Most people can adapt to any type of hearing aid, as long as they know what to expect. Have an honest conversation with your audiologist as to what your needs are.

Q: What are channels, and how many do I need?

Generally speaking, six or more. Unless it's none at all. The number of channels a hearing aid has is often a simplistic way an audiologist will use to explain why one hearing aid is better than another, but channels are complex and it is really not that straightforward. Hearing aids amplify sounds of different frequencies by different amounts. Most people have lost more high frequencies than low and therefore need more amplification in the high frequencies. The range of sounds you hear are split into frequency bands or channels and the hearing aids are set to provide the right amount of hearing at each frequency level. Less than six channels and this cannot be done with much accuracy, so six is the magic number. However, a six channel aid is typically very basic with few other features and is suitable only for hearing a single speaker in a quiet room. The number of channels is not what you should be looking at, it's more the rest of the technology that comes with them. As a final note, different manufacturers have different approaches. One method is not necessarily better than any other. For example some manufacturers have as many as 64 channels in their top aids. Most tend to have between 17 and 20. One manufacturer has no channels at all.

Q: Where can I get the hearing aids covered?

Hearing aids are easily lost, misplaced or damaged and typically are one of the most expensive personal possessions an individual can own. We offer hearing aid warranty cover for £80 per year per aid. Find out more here

Q: How much does the hearing test cost?

All our audiologists use the very latest technology and provide the full range of tests to accurately measure your hearing for free. Find out about what we offer all our customers here

Q: Do home visits cost extra?

Hearing Aid UK offers all their customers free home visiting services and home visits for hearing aids - Including hearing tests, fittings, maintenance, check-ups and much more in the comfort of your own home and at your convenience. Find out more information here

Q: How come you're much cheaper than other places?

Here, at Hearing Aid UK, we are dedicated to offering low hearing aid prices. We achieve this by having no head office and low marketing costs. Our hearing aid prices are amongst the lowest you will find anywhere in the world.

Misophonia - What is it?

Understanding and managing the sound sensitivity disorder

Misophonia, an impactful condition

Most people navigate the soundscape of everyday life with ease. However, for those with misophonia, certain sounds can evoke intense emotional reactions, making daily life challenging. Misophonia, a little-known yet severely impactful condition, is gaining attention as more people seek understanding and relief from its symptoms.

This article explores the intricacies of misophonia, its causes, manifestations, symptoms, coping strategies, and how people live with misophonia.

Misophonia definition

What is misophonia? Misophonia, derived from the Greek words "miso" (hatred) and "phonia" (sound), literally means "hatred of sound." However, this definition oversimplifies the condition. Misophonia is characterised by strong emotional reactions to specific sounds, known as trigger sounds. These reactions can range from irritation and anxiety to rage and panic. Common trigger sounds include chewing, breathing, tapping, and repetitive noises.

Unlike general sound sensitivity, misophonia is not necessarily linked to the loudness of the sound. Instead, it's the specific quality or repetition of certain noises that create a response. This is why the condition can severely impact quality of life, affecting social interactions, work environments, and personal relationships.

The common "fight or flight" response to said sounds is immediately leaving the room, pressing your hands over your ears and finding the urge to scream for the sound(s) to stop.

Misophonia causes

What are the suspected causes of misophonia? Misophonia was given the title in 2001 by researchers, however, the causes of misophonia remain an ongoing topic. While there is no definitive answer, several theories suggest potential underlying factors. However, it is said that it is more common in those who also have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Tourette Syndrome, tinnitus, and anxiety disorders. Other theories are:

Neurological

Some researchers believe misophonia is linked to hyperconnectivity between the auditory cortex and the limbic system. This is the brain region involved in emotions. This connection may cause an exaggerated emotional response to specific sounds.

Genetics

There is evidence to suggest a genetic link to misophonia, as it often runs in families. Studies are ongoing to identify specific genes that may contribute to the condition.

Psychological

Misophonia may also be related to heightened sensitivity or conditioning. Some may develop negative associations with certain sounds, leading to conditioned emotional responses.

What is misophonia

Misophonia and the hatred of sound

Manifestations of misophonia

Misophonia symptoms

What are the known symptoms of misophonia? Misophonia can manifest in various ways, with symptoms ranging in severity. Common emotional, behavioural, and physical reactions include:

Emotional

Those with misophonia often experience intense feelings of anger, irritation, or disgust in response to trigger sounds. These emotions can arise quickly and feel overwhelming.

Physical

Physical reactions can include increased heart rate, sweating, muscle tension, and a sense of panic or anxiety. These responses can make it difficult for those to remain in environments where trigger sounds are present.

Behavioural

To avoid trigger sounds, some may alter their behaviour, such as avoiding social situations, using earplugs or headphones, or creating sound-free environments. These coping mechanisms can lead to social isolation and impact mental health.

Living with misophonia, is it manageable?

Living with misophonia requires many approaches to manage its impact. Communication is crucial; explaining the condition to family, friends, and colleagues can instigate empathy and support. It's also important to advocate for yourself, whether that means requesting accommodations at work or finding creative solutions to minimise exposure to trigger sounds.

Self-care is also essential. Prioritising activities that promote mental and emotional well-being, such as exercise, hobbies, and relaxation, can help reduce the stress associated with misophonia. Seeking professional help, whether from audiologists, therapists, or support groups, can provide valuable tools and resources for managing the condition.

What is misophonia?

Misophonia Treatment

Exploring treatments and coping mechanisms

Treatment and coping strategies for misophonia

While there is no cure for misophonia, several strategies can help manage its symptoms and improve quality of life, such as:

Sound and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Sound therapy, also known as tinnitus retraining therapy, involves listening to low-level sounds or white noise to reduce the impact of trigger sounds. This approach can help desensitise the offending noises over time.

CBT can be effective in helping reframe emotional responses to trigger sounds. Through therapy, you can learn coping mechanisms and develop strategies to manage reactions.

Environmental modifications

Making changes to your environment can help minimise exposure to trigger sounds. This can include using noise-cancelling headphones, creating quiet spaces at home or work, and communicating with others about the condition to increase understanding and support.

Mindfulness and relaxation techniques

Mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and other relaxation techniques can help manage the stress and anxiety associated with misophonia. These practices can promote a sense of calm and improve emotional regulation.

Mirroring the trigger sounds

If you have misophonia, you might find that making the same sound yourself usually doesn't trigger any reaction. Some people with misophonia even discover that imitating the triggering sounds can help reduce the distress they experience.

Support groups and communities

Connecting with others who have misophonia can provide a sense of community and understanding. Support groups, both in-person and online, offer a space to share experiences, coping strategies, and emotional support in a safe space.

Hearing aids for misophonia, are they helpful?

Hearing aids, particularly those with noise-cancellation and customisable sound settings, can help those suffering from misophonia by filtering out trigger sounds and reducing overall sound sensitivity. The audiology assistance can provide significant relief, making daily environments more manageable for those affected.

You can download the white paper about misophonia from 23andMe by clicking on the green button further down the page.

Misophonia conclusion

As awareness of misophonia grows, so does the interest in research and understanding of the condition.

Ongoing studies aim to uncover the neurological and genetic links of misophonia, which will hopefully result in more effective treatments and interventions in the future.

Increased recognition of the condition within the medical and psychological communities will also help ensure that sufferers receive the support and understanding they need.

If you think you may have misophonia, it is important that you contact your local GP for diagnosis, treatment, coping strategies, and professional support.

Common FAQs about hearing aids and hearing loss

Is this the best model for me?

If you are looking at this page then it is likely that an audiologist has suggested that you purchase this particular hearing aid, so is this the best model for you?

In general, any audiologist will always be recommending to you the model that best suits your needs. Here is a useful check list to make sure that is the case.

Audiologist level of knowledge. The audiologist you have seen will hopefully have a wide knowledge of all available hearing aids, however some will only be familiar with a small number of brands and therefore may not really be in a position to know which model is the best for you. It is OK to challenge their recommendation and ask them to justify why this particular brand is the one for you.
Do research. Read about the hearing aid that was recommended. Does it seem like it will suit your lifestyle? Does it have more or less features than you need?
Be aware of sales targets. Many high street retailers have specific tie-ins to a particular manufacturer/brand. The hearing aid they have suggested may still be the correct one for you, but do your research so that you know why they might have recommended it.

If in doubt, feel free to give us a call. That's what we're here for.

Do I need one hearing aid or two?

What are the benefits of rechargeable hearing aids?

Are behind the ear aids better than in the ear aids?

What are channels, and how many do I need?

Where can I get the hearing aids covered?

How much does the hearing test cost?

Do home visits cost extra?

How come you're much cheaper than other places?

What is Misophonia? - Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Misophonia - What is it?