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A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Sheffield, UK

Hi everyone, I don't know whether anyone else suffers with this issue, I have a total intolerance to constant noises, it may be something as simple as somebody whistling or tapping on the table or humming, or yesterday my sister was texting on her phone and the keypad was making a bleeping sound constantly as she tapped, and it drove me insane, to the point I had to put my hands over my ears, I know there is a condition called misophonia which I think this is what it is, I have been like it for… read more

July 24, 2016 (edited)
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Answer Summary

Members overwhelmingly related to the experience of heightened sensitivity to noises, bright lights, and smells, with many sharing that... Read more

Members overwhelmingly related to the experience of heightened sensitivity to noises, bright lights, and smells, with many sharing that repetitive sounds like tapping, chewing, or phone keypads can trigger intense anxiety or even migraines. Several members described practical coping strategies including wearing yellow-tinted shooting glasses or specially made Irlen syndrome lenses for light sensitivity, using MP3 players with headphones to mask tinnitus, keeping earplugs and essential oils on hand, and avoiding fluorescent lighting and ceiling lights in favor of dimmer table lamps. A recurring theme was the relief of knowing they are not alone in these sensory struggles, with many connecting their symptoms to fibromyalgia, migraines, tinnitus, or conditions like misophonia and pseudotumor cerebri, and expressing both frustration and humor about their superhero-level senses that make everyday environments feel overwhelming.

A MyFibroTeam Member

Yea, I do. Light and noises are a big issue for me too. When I worked, co workers with radios drove me bonkers. I could hear all the different stations playing and couldn't concentrate. And the fluorescent lights killed me. I'd come home and sit in the dark. Smells also a big thing for me. Especially sweet perfume or colognes. Is frustrating. I know a few people with fibro with the same sensitivities. We're not normal, but that's normal for us ;)

July 26, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

I have sensitivity to sound, light & smell but I also have a condition called Pseudotumor Cerebri that may explain the light & sound. Not sure though bc I've always been super annoyed and would even have to remove myself when repetitive sounds are around. My hubby smacks when he eats (or drinks or just breathes) and we almost get into arguments bc I get instant migraine from it. Light & smell are rather new so idk if it's any dx or side effect of a medication or what. It's just super isolating.

July 24, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

I too wear sunglasses at night due to the car lights. Those new blue lights are blinding. I am not surprised that Fibro sufferers are sensitive to light and sound considering our nerves are hyper sensitive. I think this is all related.

July 24, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

Yes I suffer with photophobia and recently had some glasses made which help to calm my eyes down - wear my glasses at night as can't tolerate car lights or the big flourescent lights at my place of work xx

July 24, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

I am very sensitive to lights and sound. Especially repetitive sounds. And bright lights just kill me. I wear sun glasses even on gloomy days and even sometimes when it's raining. And very much in the Winter time. Snow reflects the sun light and absolutely kills me. I don't know why this is but my eye doctor said that a person whom is night blind, which I am, will be more sensitive to bright lights and sounds. I can handle dogs barking and cats meowing and other animals but humans and electronics make some very painful noises that just send me off the deep end. I wish you luck in finding out the cause. Many hugs.

July 24, 2016

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