WHAT IS MISOPHONIA?

Misophonia is a strong dislike or hatred of specific sounds. It can also be called selective sound sensitivity syndrome. Doctors are not sure what causes it, but it is not a problem with the ears. They believe it is part mental and part physical. Misophonia could be related to how sound affects your brain and triggers automatic responses in your body. It is sometimes mistaken for anxiety or bipolar or obsessive-compulsive disorder. Some doctors want it classified as a new disorder. Misophonia starts with a trigger. It is often an oral sound. It could be the noise someone makes when they eat, breathe, chew, whistle or yawn. It can also be a small repetitive motion like someone fidgets, jostles the person, or wiggles their foot. For a mild reaction, the person may feel anxious, uncomfortable, the urge to flee, or disgust. A more severe response might cause, rage, hatred, panic, fear, emotional distress, a desire to kill or stop whatever is making the noise, skin crawling, or suicidal thoughts. You may respond over time to visual triggers also. The person might be set off by seeing someone get ready to eat or put something in their mouth. This is a lifelong condition that usually starts between the ages of 9-13. It is more common with girls. It comes on quickly, however, it is not related to any one event. There are more than a dozen misophonia clinics around the country. They offer sound therapy combined with psychological counseling. With this therapy, the doctor sets up background noises to counteract the trigger sound. Talk therapy and antidepressants are other treatments. Patients are recommended to get regular exercise, plenty of sleep and manage their stress. They can also wear ear plugs and headsets to tune out sounds. They are told to set up quiet areas or safe spots in their home where no one will make the noises that bother them. They can find support with The Misophenia Association which has chapters across the country.