Hyperacusis is described as having an abnormally strong reaction to sound. People with hyperacusis typically experience discomfort for loud sounds and will avoid any environments and activities that may involve loud sounds. Misophonia or dislike of sound and phonophobia which is fear of sound involve abnormally strong emotional reactions to sound. This can occur when a negative emotional association is made with certain sounds. This may cause avoidance of sound and the use of hearing protection devices such as earplugs to protect the ears. The overuse of hearing protection can cause or exacerbate hyperacusis.
*Resouce on Hyperacusis was obtained from http://www.entnet.org/content/hyperacusis-increased-sensitivity-everyday-sounds
