Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Danish Version of Inventory of Hyperacusis Symptoms

TL;DR

This study translated and validated a Danish version of a questionnaire for measuring hyperacusis symptoms, finding it reliable and valid for use in Danish adults.

Contribution

The study provides a cross-culturally adapted and validated Danish version of the Inventory of Hyperacusis Symptoms (IHS-DK).

Findings

The Danish IHS-DK demonstrated good reliability with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.95.

Test–retest reliability was acceptable except for the General Loudness factor.

The IHS-DK is considered a valid and reliable tool for assessing hyperacusis in Danish adults.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to (i) cross-culturally adapt the Inventory of Hyperacusis (IHS) into Danish and (ii) assess its usability, validity, and reliability in Danish adults with hyperacusis. Methods: The translation followed established guidelines for adapting hearing-related questionnaires. A two-phase design ensured linguistic and cultural adaptation and evaluated test–retest reliability and construct validity. The IHS, consisting of 25 items, was translated and tested in seven participants through cognitive debriefing. In phase two, temporal consistency was assessed in 32 patients. Results: Thirty-two participants (twenty-eight female; mean age 49.8 years) completed the study over 2–4 weeks (mean 22 days). Eight used hearing aids, and twenty-four reported tinnitus. The Danish IHS showed good reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.95) and acceptable test–retest reliability, except for the General Loudness factor. While no systematic score changes occurred, significant variability in score changes were noted. Conclusions: The Danish IHS appears to be a reliable and valid tool for assessing hyperacusis. Further research is needed, but the IHS-DK shows potential as an effective clinical and research tool for evaluating hyperacusis impact and treatment outcomes.

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