Sound Sensitivity Care in Vancouver
If everyday sounds feel too loud, sharp, or hard to tolerate, you’re not imagining it, and you’re not alone.
Sound sensitivity can show up in different ways. For some people, noise feels physically uncomfortable or even painful. For others, specific sounds trigger strong emotional or physical reactions that are hard to ignore.
At Sonaris, we assess how your hearing and sensory systems are responding to sound, so you can better understand what’s happening and what may help.
When to consider a sound sensitivity assessment in Vancouver:
You may benefit from an assessment if you’re noticing:
- everyday sounds feel too loud or uncomfortable
- certain sounds trigger irritation, anxiety, or strong reactions
- difficulty tolerating busy or noisy environments
- ringing or changes in tinnitus with sound exposure
- avoiding places or situations because of sound
- feeling overwhelmed or fatigued by noise
What sound sensitivity is:
Sound sensitivity is a change in how your brain processes sound.
It’s often described as the brain’s internal “volume control” being set too high, so sounds that would normally feel neutral are experienced as too intense, distracting, or uncomfortable.
For some people, this improves over time. For others, it becomes a persistent part of daily life that affects how they move through the world.
Hyperacusis: When sound feels too loud
Hyperacusis is a reduced tolerance for everyday sounds based on volume or intensity.
Sounds like dishes clattering, traffic, or sudden noises may feel uncomfortably loud or even painful, even when others around you are not bothered.
This can lead to:
- physical discomfort or pain with sound
- increased awareness of everyday noise
- startle responses to sudden sounds
- difficulty being in typical environments like restaurants or stores
Hyperacusis is often linked to changes in how the auditory system is regulating sound, and may be associated with tinnitus, noise exposure, or head injury.
Misophonia: When specific sounds trigger a reaction
Misophonia is different.
It’s not about volume. It’s about the type of sound and the reaction it creates.
Sounds like chewing, tapping, breathing, or repetitive noises can trigger strong emotional or physical responses, including irritation, anxiety, or tension.
This can lead to:
- immediate emotional reactions to specific sounds
- physical responses like muscle tension or increased heart rate
- difficulty focusing in environments with trigger sounds
- avoidance of social or shared spaces
Misophonia reflects how the brain connects sound and emotional response, rather than a problem with hearing itself.
What to expect from your assessment:
We begin by listening carefully to what you’ve been experiencing.
Assessment may include:
- hearing testing to understand your baseline
- sound tolerance evaluation
- review of tinnitus or related symptoms
- discussion of triggers, environments, and patterns
The goal is to understand how your system is responding to sound and what type of sensitivity you’re experiencing.
What can help sound sensitivity:
There is no single approach that works for everyone, but many people find meaningful relief with the right support.
This may include:
- sound therapy to gradually improve tolerance
- guidance on appropriate use of hearing protection
- tinnitus-related support when relevant
- strategies to reduce sensory overload in daily life
- coordinated care or referrals when needed
We take a step-by-step approach, focusing first on understanding, then on what support makes sense for you.
Referred to Sonaris Hearing Center Surrey by ENT Doctor Mori. An excellent experience with audiologist Fred Manta. With Fred’s expertise, selected hearing aids and some specialised equipment, I am able to hear much of what I lost over the years through industrial noise exposure. Anticipating multiple appointments, I was hesitant to make the drive as there were hearing centres much closer to home. It quickly became evident however that it would be worth every mile. Office manager Ravjir and office admin., Hanna were very thoughtful in finding appointments that were off peak traffic times and fitting me in when there was a snag. All in all my wife Linda and I appreciate Sonaris very much and we’ll happily drive the distance to continue with them as my ongoing hearing management requires. Thank you Fred, Ravjir and Hanna.
I simply cannot say enough about Fred Matta . He is clearly one of the most personable, professional and knowledgeable specialists that I have ever met in the medical field. He spent an exceptional amount of time assisting me to make the best decision regarding my hearing aids. He also allowed lots of trial time for me to demo two different models. There was never any pressure to make the final purchase. I would also like to thank his receptionist/assistant, Jas. She completes the picture that allows for a friendly, comfortable office visit.
Do not hesitate to contact Sonaris as you will be most impressed!!
I have been seeing Fred for many years now and he has just fitted me with my second set of hearing aids . . . always extremely professional . . . polite . . . courteous . . . knowledgeable . . . and he goes out of his way to check all details and trials to ensure everything is as good as it can be and the customer 100% satisfied . . . a true professional . . . and highly recommended!!!
Undoubtedly one of the most professional, empathetic and best medical partners a patient/parent can ask for. Fred Matta goes beyond his professional duties to research, communicate and guide.We cannot thank Fred enough for the care, guidance and friendship over the years.
Director of Audiology
Book Your Appointment With Us Today
Book Your Appointment With Us Today
Where Can I Find Sound Sensitivity Care in Greater Vancouver?
If you’re dealing with sound sensitivity, hyperacusis, or misophonia in Vancouver, Burnaby, or Surrey, the first step is understanding how your system is responding to sound.
At Sonaris, we assess hearing, sound tolerance, and sensory processing together, so you can get a clearer picture of what’s going on.
Many people come in unsure how to describe what they’re experiencing, only that sound feels overwhelming or difficult to manage. That’s a common starting point. Our role is to help make sense of it and guide you toward support that fits.
