This whole thing was so weird for me my whole life. I always suffered in silence because I thought I was crazy. I mean, why would someone eating bother me so bad? And why only certain people?

I recently started a new job and the guy that sits next to me ENRAGES me when he eats anything... even when he drinks. I was so upset one day I just Googled something like "angry when people eat loudly" and all this info about 4S came up. I almost cried I was so happy!!!

They aren't sure if it's a neurological thing, a hearing disorder, or even some form of autism. I do know that it's pure hell...

I have to keep earplugs with me all the time. I don't go to the movies because someone might eat popcorn. If I go in a store and the clerk is chewing gum, I leave. If I hear food packages being opened I start to freak out. At work I spend alot of time in the bathroom on "Mexican Day" when they order from this place and everyone crunches chips.

I've only told 2 people about this, my mom and my best friend. My mom sorta believes it but thinks I should "just get over it". My best friend is much more understanding and knows not to crunch, smack, or chew gum when we are together. Actually her 16 year old daughter is starting to show signs of 4S... she gets really mad when people eat and crunch.

I'm just happy to find a place like this where I can discuss my problems and nobody will laugh at me or make fun of me.