Study shows one in five of us have condition called misophonia provoking ... trends now

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Sniffing, coughing and slurping are sounds that most of us barely take notice of.

But such noises can be so bothersome to some people that they can cause distress, anger and even panic, scientists say.

You may have this condition, called misophonia, if you have a strong negative reaction to common sounds, from throat clearing and knuckle-cracking to couples kissing.

The first UK study of misophonia has now shown that it affects up to a fifth of us.

The study identified participants for whom the condition is a ‘burden’ on their lives – although only those with an extreme problem would need counselling to help with it. Researchers used a questionnaire to judge noise triggers, reactions and intensity of response of the 772 participants.

The scientists also identified red flags for misophonia for those wondering if they have it.