Noise pollution has harmful effects on our body and can become a big problem that affects our daily lives. To raise awareness about the problem of noise in homes and workplaces, World Noise Awareness Day is celebrated on the last Wednesday of April, this year it will be the 26th.. An anniversary that highlights the need to look for solutions to isolate our home from outside noise and improve quality of life. According to data it manages Kronos Homesone of the leading real estate developers in Spain and Portugal, two out of ten Spaniards suffer from noise problems produced by neighbors or coming from abroad.
Noise pollution is the presence of excessive and continuous environmental noise over time produced by human action, which generates discomfort and has dire consequences for physical and psychological health. Suffering from this problem at home is especially annoying, since our home is the place intended for rest, leisure activities and spending quality time.
Within noise pollution, two types of noise generating sources must be differentiated: that which is generated inside homes and that which is produced outside. Inside our homes, noise pollution can come from appliances or a barking dog. On the other hand, noises from outside can be due to cars passing on a nearby road, roadworks, or annoying neighbors, among other possibilities.
Noise pollution can come from different sources, these are the most common:
Road Traffic. It is one of the main sources of noise pollution, especially in homes located near roads and highways.
Air traffic. Homes located under air routes endure noise levels much higher than desired.
Urban works. Urban works are responsible for a large amount of noise pollution, although it is temporary.
Animals. A dog’s barking and howling can be considered noise pollution, as they can reach up to 80 decibels.
Home appliances. Operating appliances, such as the washing machine and dryer, are a source of noise, although noise pollution is mainly due to radio, television or music devices with powerful speakers.
Restoration and nightlife. Bars and restaurants, especially if they have outdoor terraces, are a source of noise suffered by residents in the area.
Being constantly subjected to noise levels above what is recommended can have negative consequences on our physical and psychological health. These are the main harmful effects:
1. Hearing loss
Being subjected to noise pollution can cause, in the long run, a decrease in hearing capacity and hearing loss in the most serious cases.
2. Psychopathological problems
When faced with a constant noise source, the pulse accelerates, the heart rate increases, and the person feels nervous or may suffer gastric episodes or headaches.
3. Worsening of health status
Noise pollution can increase hypertension or cause cardiovascular problems. It is also detrimental to keeping the body balanced when you suffer from diabetes.
4. Sleep disturbance
One of the main direct consequences of excessive noise is the lack of rest, especially at night, which causes insomnia, discomfort and nervousness.
5. Lower concentration
Noise prevents proper concentration, which causes decreased productivity and poor performance.
6. Altered moods
Not resting adequately as a result of noise pollution causes people to appear tired and present behavioral problems, such as aggression or irritability.
7. Nervousness in children and pets
Children and pets are especially sensitive to loud and constant noises, which sometimes translates into restlessness or sudden changes in character.
8. Psychological problems
Noise pollution can cause stress, anxiety, depression and chronic fatigue problems in people who suffer from it.
9. Memory and attention difficulties
Constant noise results in attention and memory problems, making it difficult for those who, for example, are studying for an exam or preparing for a competition.