Light & Sound Sensitivity
What is Light & Sound Sensitivity?
Light and sound sensitivity, also known as photophobia and hyperacusis, respectively, are conditions where every day stimuli like light and noise become overwhelming or even painful. These sensitivities can significantly impact daily life, making it difficult to focus, socialize, or function in busy environments. At Clarity Brain and Body Clinic, we understand that light and sound sensitivity often stem from underlying neurological dysfunctions, and we aim to address the root causes to provide lasting relief.
Symptoms of Light & Sound Sensitivity
Light Sensitivity (Photophobia): Discomfort or pain in response to bright lights, fluorescent lighting, or screen glare.
Sound Sensitivity (Hyperacusis): Overwhelming or painful reactions to everyday noises, such as conversations, music, or household sounds.
Cognitive Fatigue: Difficulty concentrating or increased mental fatigue when exposed to light or sound stimuli.
Physical Symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, or nausea triggered by sensory overload.
Heightened Startle Reflex: An exaggerated reaction to unexpected light or sound stimuli.
Common Causes of
Light & Sound Sensitivity
Light and sound sensitivity can arise from a variety of neurological, physiological, and psychological factors, including:
Dysautonomia, a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, can amplify the body’s stress response, making individuals more sensitive to sensory stimuli. Conditions like Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) frequently co-occur with light and sound sensitivity.
Chronic Stress and Anxiety
Prolonged stress or anxiety can increase the brain’s arousal levels, leading to heightened sensitivity to environmental stimuli. This can create a feedback loop where light and sound exacerbate stress, further worsening the symptoms.
Concussion and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
A concussion or TBI can disrupt normal brain function, including the processing of visual and auditory information. This disruption often results in heightened sensitivity to light and sound. Damage to areas like the brainstem or thalamus, which regulate sensory input, may exacerbate symptoms.
Disorders of the vestibular system, such as vestibular neuritis or Meniere’s disease, can contribute to sensory sensitivities. The brain’s struggle to balance visual and auditory input with inner ear signals often results in sensory overload.
Retained Primitive Reflexes
Primitive reflexes, which should naturally integrate during early development, can persist in some individuals, leading to sensory processing challenges. Retained reflexes can heighten the brain’s response to light and sound, making these stimuli feel overwhelming.
Migraines are a common cause of light and sound sensitivity. The neurological changes associated with migraines can lower sensory thresholds, making even mild stimuli intolerable.
Diagnosing Light and Sound Sensitivity at Clarity Brain &
Body Clinic
Our diagnostic process is designed to identify the root causes of your sensory sensitivities.
Methods may include:
Comprehensive Neurological Exam: Assessing brain function and sensory processing pathways.
Autonomic Nervous System Testing: Evaluating the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems.
Vestibular and Oculomotor Assessment: Analyzing inner ear function and eye movements to identify dysfunctions contributing to sensory overload.
Cognitive Testing: Identifying coexisting issues like mental fatigue or brain fog.
Personalized Treatment for Light and Sound Sensitivity
At Clarity Brain and Body Clinic, we offer individualized, evidence-based treatments to reduce sensory sensitivities and improve quality of life. Our approach may include:
Neuroplasticity-Based Exercises: Activities designed to recalibrate the brain’s sensory processing pathways.
Autonomic Nervous System Rehabilitation: Techniques to improve the balance between stress and relaxation responses.
Oculomotor and Visual Therapy: Strategies to reduce visual triggers and improve eye-brain coordination.
Vestibular Therapy: Exercises to enhance inner ear function and reduce sensory overload.
Stress Management and Biofeedback: Tools to lower overall arousal levels and build resilience to sensory triggers.
Why Choose Clarity Brain and Body Clinic?
At Clarity Brain and Body Clinic, we understand how debilitating light and sound sensitivity can be. Dr. Timko uses cutting-edge functional neurology techniques to address the root causes of your symptoms, providing personalized care that empowers you to regain control over your environment and your life.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
If light and sound sensitivity are affecting your daily life, don’t wait to seek help. Contact Clarity Brain and Body Clinic today to schedule a free discovery call and begin your journey toward a brighter, quieter future.