If you’ve ever lived near an airport, you know how loud and annoying airplane noise can be. But did you know that exposure to airport noise can actually have a negative impact on your heart health?.
What is Airport Noise?
Airport noise is defined as any sound generated by aircraft operations at or around an airport. This includes noise from takeoffs, landings, engine testing, and ground equipment.
The noise can be heard both inside and outside of homes and other buildings that are located near the airport.
How Does Airport Noise Affect Your Heart Health?
Research has shown that exposure to airport noise can lead to an increased risk of heart disease. This is because the noise causes a stress response in the body, which can increase heart rate and blood pressure.
Over time, this can lead to damage to the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
One study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that people who were exposed to high levels of airplane noise were more likely to have high blood pressure and an increased risk of heart disease.
Another study published in the European Heart Journal found that exposure to airport noise was associated with an increased risk of hospitalization for cardiovascular disease.
Who is Most at Risk?
People who live near airports or other high-traffic areas are most at risk for the negative health effects of airport noise.
Those who are exposed to high levels of noise on a regular basis, such as pilots and airport workers, may also be at increased risk.
Children, pregnant women, and elderly individuals may also be more vulnerable to the negative effects of airport noise on heart health. This is because their bodies may not be able to handle the stress response as well as younger, healthier adults.
What Can You Do?
If you live near an airport or other high-traffic area, there are steps that you can take to reduce your exposure to noise and protect your heart health.
One of the most effective ways to reduce your exposure to airport noise is to install soundproof windows and doors in your home.
This will not only reduce the amount of noise that you hear, but also help to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
You can also try using white noise machines or earplugs to block out the sound of airplanes. Additionally, you may want to consider moving to a quieter area if you can afford to do so.
Conclusion
Airport noise may seem like a minor annoyance, but it can have a serious impact on your heart health. If you live near an airport or other high-traffic area, it’s important to take steps to protect your health and reduce your exposure to noise.
Installing soundproof windows, using earplugs or white noise machines, and considering a move to a quieter area are all effective ways to reduce your risk of heart disease and other health problems associated with airport noise exposure.