Noise pollution! How do you describe noise pollution? Does it affect our health?
Noise pollution comes from unsolicited unpleasant sounds which can cause undesirable effects. From the loud speakers in religious centers to the constant honking from vehicles and the sounds of heavy machinery; there are numerous sources of noise pollution.
HEALTH EFFECTS
Being able to listen to sounds is an important part of our everyday life. However, when sounds become noise, it has negative effects on our physical, mental, emotional, psychological, and social health.
- Disturbed sleep patterns
Our quality of sleep can be significantly affected by noise. We find it difficult to fall asleep, to stay asleep and we wake up too early when exposed to a noisy environment. This affects our mood, concentration, productivity at work, amongst others.
- Difficulty in hearing
Exposure to loud sounds can lead to hearing problems like partial deafness, tinnitus (constant ringing sound in the ear), distortion in hearing patterns and abnormal sound perception.
- Increased stress levels
Noise in the environment during the day and at night can be triggers for anxiety, negative attitude, frustration, anger, and high stress levels.
- Continuous exposure to loud noise can increase the risks of developing high blood pressure, increased blood thickness and other cardiovascular diseases.
Studies have shown that living close to airports, busy roads, industries can be a health risk factor for cardiovascular diseases
- Prolonged high-pitched sounds from our headsets, earpieces and other sound devices can also cause hearing impairment.
MANAGING NOISE POLLUTION
Since we cannot change or stop the noise created by our ever-changing modernized environment, we need to:
Recognize the sources of noise pollution around us.
Find realistic ways to practically manage and reduce such noises.
E.g.: reducing the vibrations and sounds from generators during the day and at night by installing soundproof systems in generator houses.
Installing soundproof systems in clubhouses, worship centers and other areas where noise are generated.
Avoid areas where loud noises and constantly generated.
Always wear your ear protective gears when working in areas where high pitched sounds are generated.
Image credit: Shutterstock
Ezike Nonye is a Pharmacist who completed her Bachelor degree from University of Lagos (B.Pharm). She is currently exploring digital marketing analytics as a novel field in Pharmacy practice while also interning at the Federal Medical Center (FMC) Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. She is a graphic designer, a blogger and an entrepreneur. She is passionate about creating new things from nature and believes that there is no limitation to what you can achieve. She is a Christian and loves writing and open to new ideas and skills.
