Most patients experience inner ear pain or a feeling of fullness (pressure) in the ears. People with hyperacusis sometimes can have a very low threshold to sound and it may be difficult and sometimes impossible for them to remain in the mainstream of life (socially unfit). Most hyperacusis individuals eventually develop tinnitus (ringing sounds in the ears). It is even difficult to sleep because the sufferer's stress level is so high. Phonophobia can sometimes accompany hyperacusis. Phonophobia is a fear of being exposed to certain sounds usually because they believe it will damage the ear.