Cut long exposure to sound: Experts

Manav Mander

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, April 26

Is your hand constantly on the horn while you are driving or are you always on the phone talking to your friends. Do you aloof yourself from the world by plugging in earphones and listening to your favourite music. If you are indulging in these practices regularly, then beware, as all these factors are leading to some or the other medical complication.

One thing that is common in the above said things is “sound”. The sound emitted from the horn is causing anxiety to someone, talking over the phone endlessly can harm your ears and listening to loud music for prolonged hours can even cause hearing loss.

On International Noise Awareness Day today, experts cautioned the city people about the noise created by different objects and how it was affecting the human health and behaviour.

Dr Avinash Jindal, medicine specialist at Civil Hospital and president of Ludhiana unit of Indian Medical Association (IMA), said people should learn how to keep their hands off horns.

“The noise of the horns first affects the ears of the one who is blowing it. Secondly, it can cause anxiety and stress in others and is also one of the major reasons behind hypertension. People should start saying no to horns for the welfare of their own selves and others,” said Dr Jindal.

Civil Surgeon Dr Rajeev Bhalla, speaking during a function organised by the IMA on the occasion, traced the genesis of International Noise Awareness Day. He spoke about how excessive noise could damage mental peace and result in noise pollution.

Dr Vaneet Gulati, an ENT specialist, said the constant exposure to mobile radiation and prolonged use of earphones could damage one’s ears. “Noise induced hearing loss is getting very common these days, especially among the urban population. The reason behind the same is prolonged use of earphones or headphones and there is nothing to repair the loss. People, especially the younger lot, should be careful about the volume they are adjusting to on their earphones since earphones amplify the sound five to six times and is even more harmful,” he added.