In modern life, we can easily see loud noises such as car horns or drilling machines. However, background noise in the house such as washing machines, TVs open all day, phone reports or traffic noise reaching the window is less noticed but has a great impact on mental health.
These continuous sounds trigger a nervous system that is stressed and increase the hormone cortisol, the main cause of prolonged stress and many serious health problems, according to Onlymyhealth.
background noise and stress hormones
Noise is not just sound, but also a continuous stimulating signal that the brain processes, says Dr Vikram Vora, Medical Director at International SOS (Indian Subcontinent). Even if you are not aware that you are hearing the sound of an operating refrigerator or the sound of a TV in background mode, your brain is still working. This causes the body to fall into a state of hidden stress that you do not know.
When exposed to these types of background noises continuously, the body produces cortisol, a stress hormone that is beneficial in the short term ( Helping you react quickly to danger), but is harmful if it is maintained at a high level for a long time. Some consequences of prolonged cortisol increase include:
Sleep disturbances (difficulty sleeping, poor sleep)
Anxiety, irritability or prolonged fatigue
Decreased ability to concentrate and remember
Weakened immune system
Increased risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases
Metabolic disorders, easy to gain weight
Common source of background noise in the home
Most families today contain many sound sources that seem to be gentle but have a great impact on the nervous system:
TV, music or radio open all day even if you are not really watching
The sound of household machinery such as washing machines, vacuum cleaners, dishwashers
Phone notification, bell ringing, digital bidding
Noise from outside such as traffic, neighbors or construction
Noise from ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration systems
5 simple ways to reduce background noise and regain balance
Create a quiet space in the house: Choose a corner or separate room to relax, use thick fabric curtains, floor carpets, pillows to insulate the sound, limit electronic devices here.
Digital audio control: Turn off phone notifications, leave the device in quiet mode in the evening, do not turn on TV or background music if not listening.
Add pleasant sound: Replace the machine noise with natural sound, light rain or non- pleasant music to balance the sound environment.
Use a reasonable device: Avoid using noisy devices in the evening or near bedtime to give your body proper rest.
Invest in soundproofing if necessary: Use noise-proof curtains, double-layered glass doors, and turn on soundproofing doors if your home is near a noisy area such as a major road or construction site.
