I was diagnosed with it as a result of PTSD (neurological nightmare) My Central nervous system rewired itself and it suddenly seemed like every sound was just grating, painful and irritating. My own music seemed to be my only saving grace. It was familiar. I knew what was coming, every note, every beat so I expected each in advance and found some times I could leave it on long enough to sing along. A sound I could hear without distress or pain.
I had specialty earplugs made to leave the house (mall, shopping, etc). Apparently musicians get them. They are custom made and fitted and they have a screen in them that puts my hearing from 'normal' to 25db loss. (and can be swapped out to increase the sound blocking properties). However, I don't use them very often . They are better for home. I found that I became frustrated trying to wear them out of the house. While they helped reduce offending noises, they also prevented me from hearing the cashier or other people around me and I would have to keep taking them out to function.
I also don't wear them often out of fear. I was told that if I have them in too much, my brain will start trying to overcompensate and hear more of the "muffled sound" and make the hyperacusis worse. I still worry about wearing them so I don't very often now.
It's better now. I still have wicked tinnitus and a full feeling in my head, but most of the time, noises are easier to tolerate. I do find that if I'm tired or sick, I don't have the ability to "block out" as much.Recently it's been a bit harder. I am studying to be an ASL interpreter and I spend my days in mostly silent classes. I find that when I go out of the classroom, it's overpowering. I think that the contrast is a bit much for me and maybe I should consider wearing them home if I don't need to talk or hear anyone.
It's a miserable disorder and I'm sorry you have to go through it. Find a quiet place and make it your refuge when you are frustrated by the unrelenting sounds of the world.
