noise harms more than ears

“Calling noise a nuisance is like calling smog an inconvenience. Noise must be considered a hazard to the health of people everywhere.”

– William H. Stewart, former U.S. Surgeon General

Studies correlate noise with physiological changes in sleep, blood pressure, and digestion, and have linked noise with a negative impact on the developing fetus.

According to Alice Suter, noise expert, noise is one of the most common forms of sleep disturbance and when sleep disruption becomes chronic, adverse health effects are great. Research shows that intermittent and impulsive noise is more disturbing than continuous noise. The Environmental Protection Agency identified an indoor day-night average sound level (DNL) of 45 dBA (equivalent to a night-time average sound level of 35 dBA) to protect against sleep disturbance.

Studies show that exposure to noise is associated with elevations in blood pressure. There is some disagreement as to whether or not these changes are permanent or temporary. Rehm (1983) reported increased levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine suggesting cardiovascular involvement. Rehm also found a correlation beyond noise annoyance and adverse cardiovascular effects.

Noise is also a significant source of annoyance. In a 1997 study, Arline Bronzaft, Ph.D. et al., found that nearly seventy percent of the residents surveyed living within the flight corridors reported that they were bothered by aircraft noise and that these noises interfered with daily activities. Further, the subjects who were bothered by aircraft noise were more likely to complain of sleep difficulties and more likely to perceive themselves to be in poorer health.

We all know the stress created by unwanted sound. Even noise that may not be at hazardous levels to our hearing can make us tense and angry. Consider how irritating the simple dripping of a faucet can be in the middle of the night, let alone more intrusive noises. Studies have found noise to be associated with increased aggression (Donnerstein and Wilson, 1976) and less helpful behavior (Mathews and Cannon, 1975). Numerous articles in major newspapers have reported noise disputes leading to violence and in England, (August, 1995) the Daily Mirror reported that in the previous six years, 16 people or more were murdered or committed suicide due to chronic noise.

Although more research is necessary, anecdotal reports to the Noise Center indicate that noise has devastating effects on health. People report that noise interferes with the ability to sleep, eat and causes a wide range of health problems which affects the overall quality of life. People not only have the right to peace and quiet, their health depends on it.

Check out these additional posts on the harmful effects of noise and what you can do to prevent noise-induced hearing loss.

1. The Facts About Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
2. FAQ: Protecting Your Hearing