If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Thinking about suicide? Call or text 988.
Overview
Common in migraines.
Sound therapy helps.
When to get medical care
Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayNot usually urgent.
See a doctor soonOngoing sensitivity.
Causes
Causes include migraine, hyperacusis, and nerve conditions.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause sensitive to sound. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- MigraineSee a doctor if it doesn't get better
A headache that often throbs on one side and may come with nausea or light sensitivity.
What you can do at home
- Use ear protection carefully.
Medicines
Sound therapy.
At the doctor
Hearing tests.
Questions you may be asked
- Triggers
The exam
An ear exam.
Tests
- Hearing test
Prevention
Protect ears.
- Avoid loud noise
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.