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Resolution of hyperacusis associated with depression, following lithium administration and directive counselling

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  23 December 2009

D Attri  and
A N Nagarkar
D Attri
Affiliation:
Speech and Hearing Unit, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
A N Nagarkar*
Affiliation:
Speech and Hearing Unit, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
*
Address for correspondence: Dr Anu N Nagarkar, Speech and Hearing Unit, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India. E-mail: nitinanurishabh@yahoo.com
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Abstract

Introduction:

Hyperacusis may be described as a decreased threshold for discomfort from sound. It may have a serious impact on an individual's lifestyle, as a result of decreased sociability and inability to spend time with family and friends due to intolerance of sound.

Subject:

We present a case of hyperacusis associated with depression, with no other audiological abnormality. The patient reported greater difficulty during the depressive episode.

Method:

Audiological investigation was undertaken, followed by counselling and medication for depression.

Results and conclusion:

The pathophysiological mechanism of hyperacusis in depression is discussed. Outcomes following treatment with directive counselling and lithium (an antidepressant) are described. Research indicates that both hyperacusis and depression can be caused by hypoactivity of 5-hydroxytryptamine (also known as serotonin) in the brain. The patient reported improvement which cannot be explained solely on the basis of counselling. Enhancement of serotonin activity due to lithium, prescribed for depression, may also play a role in alleviation of hyperacusis.

Keywords

HyperacusisCochlearDepressionLithium
Type
Clinical Records
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 124 , Issue 8 , August 2010 , pp. 919 - 921
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2009

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