Neuroimaging Study in Newcastle

Currently recruiting volunteers with hyperacusis (sensitivity to everyday noises) to help us understand the condition.

What is the aim of study?

This study is aiming to help us better understand the mechanisms in the brain that cause and differentiate hyperacusis and tinnitus, which are presently not fully understood.

What will I do?

You will asked to fill in a quick online hyperacusis questionnaire to ensure eligibility. Then, you will visit the lab, which should last around 1.5 hours.

During the visit, there will be a hearing test. Then, there will be a quick auditory computer task which involves adjusting the volume of different frequencies to ensure they are comfortable for you. The task will be followed by an EEG recording. For the EEG recording, a cap that holds sensors with be placed on your head to measure brain activity. The sensors have to be covered with gel to make sure they connect well. Once the cap is in place, you will watch a subtitled movie of your choice on Netflix/BBC IPlayer for an hour whilst sounds are played to you through headphones.

Where will it take place?

All testing will take place at the Newcastle University Medical School.

Who can take part?

• Ideally, you should be 60+ years of age

• You should NOT have chronic tinnitus (buzzing/ringing in the ears without an external source)

• You should be generally healthy with no recent bouts of ill health

• You should not have participated in a similar study in the last two years

• You should NOT have moderate/severe hearing loss

Rewards

You will receive £20 as a thank you for taking part 

Where does the study take place?

The study takes place in the Clinical Sensory Cognition Laboratory at Newcastle University Medical School, which is on Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH. The meeting point is the Medical School Main Reception, at the Medical School entrance.

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If you are interested in taking part please get in touch!