Noise can be annoying or disturbing. Over time, if the noise continues or is too loud, it can impact your health and wellbeing.
Some groups of people are more sensitive to noise, such as:
- babies and young children
- older people
- sick people
- people with chronic health issues.
Impacts of noise
Long-term exposure to noise increases its impact on people's health and wellbeing. Ongoing noise can lead to:
- headaches
- increased blood pressure
- fatigue
- irritability, anxiety and stress
- poorer reading comprehension and attention in children
- hearing damage (when the noise is loud).
The impact of noise is greater when it disrupts sleep. This can affect how someone performs at work or school, particularly for shift workers.
The Department of Health and Aged Care has more information about the health effects of environmental noise(opens in a new window).
What to do if you have symptoms
If you're concerned about your health because of noise, find out who to contact.
Updated