Noise pollution has detrimental effects on our body and can become a major problem affecting our day-to-day lives. To raise awareness about the noise problem in homes and workplaces, World Noise Awareness Day, celebrated on the last Wednesday of April, is the 26th of this year.. An anniversary that highlights the need to find solutions to isolate our home from outside noise and improve quality of life. According to data managed by Kronos Homes, one of the leading real estate developers in Spain and Portugal, Two in ten Spaniards have noise problems Produced by neighbors or coming from abroad.
Noise pollution is the presence noisy extreme and persistent environmental produced by human actioncausing discomfort and having disastrous consequences for physical and psychological health. It is especially annoying to have this problem at home, as our home is a place for rest, leisure activities and quality time.
Within noise pollution, two types of noise generating sources should be distinguished: what’s produced inside the house and what’s produced outside. Inside our homes, noise pollution can come from power tools or a barking dog. On the other hand, noises from outside could be caused by cars passing by a nearby road, work on the street, 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. Houses located below the airways support noise levels well above the desired.
Urban affairs. Urban works, although of a temporary nature, are responsible for a large amount of noise pollution.
Animals. A dog’s barking and howling can be considered noise pollution as it can reach up to 80 decibels.
Home Appliances. Operating electrical appliances such as washing machines and dryers are a source of noise, but noise pollution mainly comes from radio, television or music equipment with powerful speakers.
Restoration and nightlife. Bars and restaurants are a source of noise for residents, especially if they have open terraces.
Continuous exposure to noise levels above the recommended can have negative consequences on our physical and psychological health. The main harmful effects are:
1. Hearing loss
Exposure to noise pollution can lead to a long-term reduction in hearing capacity and, in the most severe cases, hearing loss.
2. Psychopathological problems
When faced with a constant source of noise, the pulse quickens, the heart rate increases, and the person becomes tense or may experience stomach attacks or headaches.
3. Worsening health
Noise pollution can increase hypertension or cause cardiovascular problems. It is also harmful to keep the body in balance when suffering from diabetes.
4. sleep disorder
One of the main direct consequences of excessive noise is lack of rest, which causes insomnia, discomfort and tension, especially at night.
5. Lower concentration
Noise hinders proper concentration, resulting in reduced productivity and poor performance.
6. Changing moods
Not resting properly as a result of noise pollution causes people to look tired and develop behavioral problems such as aggression or irritability.
7. Irritability in children and pets
Children and pets are particularly sensitive to loud and sustained noises, which sometimes turn into restlessness or sudden character changes.
8. Psychological problems
Noise pollution can cause stress, anxiety, depression and chronic fatigue in people who suffer from it.
9. Memory and attention difficulties
Constant noise can cause attention and memory problems, making it difficult, for example, for someone studying for an exam or preparing for a competition.