An electric drill, a screaming infant, the relentless drip of a leaky tap. Some sounds are universally annoying. But for people with auditory sensitivities, sounds which many take for granted can be a source of irritation, distress and even pain.

For example, the sound of chewing might be annoying or disgusting for someone with misophonia. Anyone with hyperacusis (also known as noise sensitivity) can find everyday sounds much louder than others. People on the autism spectrum, or those with ADHD, might find quiet sounds shockingly loud or have trouble processing sounds in different environments.

It’s challenging to find solutions that address these sensitivities because everyone experiences sound so differently – even those with the same condition.