How Bad is Noise Pollution for Your Health?

By now, just about everyone knows how harmful air and water pollution are for our health. It’s easy to see the connection between thick smog and lung disease, after all. That’s why communities have made concerted efforts over the last half-century to curtail pollutants released into the ecosystem. However, what many people don’t realize is, there is another unwanted element surrounding us at all times in urban areas that may be making us sick. The dangers of noise pollution are no less real than those caused by other types, but it’s far less understood.

The modern city environment is always active. This means there may literally never be a quiet moment for those who live there. Among the most common causes of noise pollution are traffic, airplanes crossing overhead and heavy equipment operating nearby. Even if the sounds aren’t of the ear-splitting variety, a constant low rumble such as that experienced by people who live close to a major highway can have a negative physical effect.

How It Affects You

There are numerous reasons why you should want to reduce noise pollution around you that go beyond mere annoyance. Even if you think you’re tuning it out, your brain isn’t. Research indicates that loud, stressful sounds stimulate the amygdala, the portion of the brain that regulates one’s survival instincts. This triggers your body’s “fight or flight” response, which means you experience an adrenaline surge. Without even being aware of it, your heart rate and blood pressure may reach unusually high levels.

Over time, the cumulative effects of these surges and the inflammation that results can wear you down and lead to health concerns. This constant strain means you may experience fatigue, have difficulty sleeping or experience anxiety, among other issues. If left unaddressed, these could build up into more serious problems including heart disease. There’s also evidence that too much outside noise might have a negative effect on children’s developmental progress when it comes to language skills.

How to Fight It

Many of the best ways to prevent noise pollution are big-picture solutions. These involve building walls between highways and housing, rerouting aircraft away from populated areas, and using quieter electric vehicles. However, if you’re wondering how to prevent noise pollution in your home, there are some steps you can take that might make a big difference.

For example, ensuring that your walls are properly insulated helps dampen sound waves before they have a chance to invade your space. Perhaps one of the most important tips for the prevention of noise pollution is using insulating window inserts such as those provided by Indow^®. These create a pocket of air in your window panes that deaden outdoor noises, leading to more peaceful indoors.

They’re also easy to install, can be customized to fit virtually any frame, and help make your home more energy-efficient. Because this option also costs less than buying replacement windows, it’s a great idea for significantly improving the livability of your space without making a huge investment. Take a look at our website to learn more about everything our products can do for you and your house.