If you’ve had a concussion and now find everyday sounds uncomfortable, sharp, or overwhelming, you are not alone. Many people notice that normal sounds suddenly feel “too loud” after a head injury — even when their hearing test is completely normal. This condition is called hyperacusis, or sound sensitivity. The good news is that sound sensitivity is treatable, and with the right approach, the brain can learn to feel safe with sound again.
Why Does Sound Sensitivity Happen After a Concussion?
A concussion can change how the brain processes sensory information, including sound. After injury, the auditory and balance centers can become more alert and reactive. As a result, everyday sounds may feel sharper, more intense, or harder to tolerate. Common symptoms include:
- Discomfort or pain from everyday sound levels
- Difficulty being in busy or noisy environments
- Headaches or fatigue triggered by sound
- Trouble concentrating when there is background noise
This is not due to ear damage. It is due to the brain’s filter system becoming overwhelmed.
The Sound–Stress Cycle
After concussion, the nervous system sometimes learns to associate sound with discomfort. This creates a loop:
- A sound occurs
- The brain flags it as “too much”
- The nervous system reacts with stress
- The sound becomes even harder to tolerate
Over time, the brain may begin to anticipate discomfort before sound even occurs. This is why avoidance can make symptoms worse.
Why Avoiding Sound Can Make Things Worse
It is natural to want to protect yourself from sound that feels uncomfortable. Many people start wearing earplugs frequently or avoid social environments. However, avoidance teaches the brain that sound is unsafe, which can increase sensitivity over time. The key to recovery is gradual, guided exposure to sound, done slowly and safely — never by pushing or forcing tolerance.
The Brain Can Relearn Comfort With Sound
The auditory system is adaptable. With the right rehabilitation approach, the brain can reduce its stress response and return to a balanced state.
The Novasound 8-Week Hyperacusis Rehabilitation Program
Our program is designed specifically for post-concussion sound sensitivity and includes:
| Component | Purpose |
| Gentle sound therapy | Helps retrain the brain’s sound filter system |
| Graded sound exposure exercises | Builds tolerance gradually and safely |
| Nervous system calming strategies | Reduces stress and reactivity to sound |
| One-on-one weekly appointments | Support, guidance, and individualized progress tracking |
Sessions occur weekly, with short daily exercises (10–20 minutes). Progress is gradual, supportive, and never forced.
Who This Program Is For
This program may be a good fit if you:
- Developed sound sensitivity after a concussion
- Feel overwhelmed in noisy environments
- Experience headaches or stress triggered by sound
- Want to return comfortably to work, school, sports, or social settings
Recovery is possible — and you don’t have to manage it alone.
Book Appointment
Ready to take the next step?
Novasound Hearing & Balance Center
#22, 2625 Joseph Howe Drive, Halifax, NS
Phone: 902-444-7788
