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Sensitivity to loud sounds

Why does my child dislike loud sounds?

It is very common for children to dislike loud sounds, particularly if it is sudden or they have not heard the sound before. Many children will become upset, anxious or cover their ears to the noise. Common sounds that may cause these reactions:

Vacuum cleaners
Hand dryers
Hair dryers
Noisy parties
Children crying or screaming

Often, however, children are happy with loud sounds they produce themselves.

A severe dislike or intolerance of loud sounds can sometimes be called Hyperacusis.

What causes it Hypercusis?

In most children no specific cause can be identified and it is simply that the child does not like the sound(s). It can sometimes start following exposure to a loud, sudden or unpleasant noise that takes them by surprise. It can also occur following a period of reduced hearing, for example, when the child has a cold or ear infection. This is because when the hearing returns to normal everyday sounds can seem louder.

Noise sensitivity is more common in children with certain conditions, for example, Autism, Williams syndrome and learning difficulties.

What can I do to help my child?

Most children find that their noise sensitivity simply gets better over time. However, to help reduce the child’s sensitivity to noise it can be useful to try the following:

1. Reassurance

Comfort the child and reassure them that the sound won’t hurt them.
Explain the source of the sound to them.
If there is going to be a loud sound, it may help to prepare the child for example, I’m going to turn the hoover on now.

2. Taking control

The child’s sensitivity will often reduce if he or she can have some control over the sound.

Encourage the child to play with noisy toys, games or musical instruments.
The internet can be useful to show videos of noisy items. Allow the child to start or stop the video, so they are in control of the noise.
Alternatively, it may be useful to record sounds that the child dislikes and play them back, gradually overtime increasing the volume.
A reward chart with stickers may encourage the child with the above suggestions.

Trying these suggestions should help your child get used to loud sounds and realise sound can be fun.

We generally do not recommend the use of ear plugs or ear defenders. This is because in the long term it can make the child even more sensitive to loud sounds.

Further help

If there has been no improvement after a few months of trying the above suggestions or there is severe intolerance of sounds, you may wish to discuss this further. We would suggest that you contact your GP to discuss your concerns. Your GP may refer you to the Ear, Nose and Throat department or Audiology department.