Phonophobia, also known as sonophobia or ligyrophobia, is the fear of loud noises. It is a specific phobia, which means it is an extreme, irrational fear of situations or objects that do not warrant that intense a reaction. Phonophobia is not caused by hearing loss or any type of hearing disorder, but it may be more likely if you have anxiety or are on the autistic spectrum. People with phonophobia may experience panic and anxiety when exposed to loud noises, and they may avoid situations where they might encounter loud noises.
Symptoms of phonophobia may include one or more of the following: desire to flee, intense fear of loud sounds, excessive sweating, irregular heartbeat, and panic attacks. Treatment approaches for phonophobia include exposure therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and relaxation techniques.
It is important to note that phonophobia should not be confused with hyperacusis, which is a hearing disorder that causes sounds to feel louder than they actually are. Hyperacusis is not a phobia, but it can cause anxiety attacks in a person who suffers from phonophobia.
