Misophonia is a condition characterized by strong emotional reactions—such as anger, anxiety, or disgust—to specific sounds, often those produced by others, like chewing, breathing, or tapping. These reactions are disproportionate to the actual sound and can trigger a fight-or-flight response, including increased heart rate and muscle tension. The condition typically manifests in childhood or early adolescence and can significantly impact social interactions, work, and daily life. While the exact cause remains unclear, misophonia may involve abnormal brain activity, particularly in areas responsible for processing emotions and sensory information. Treatment options include specialized cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which has shown promise in reducing symptoms. Other approaches, such as tinnitus retraining therapy, exposure therapy, and certain medications, are also being explored.
