Back to blood pressure news index

Night noises are bad for your blood pressure

Loud noises at night can increase blood pressure, even if the person stays asleep. The louder the noise, the higher the persons blood pressure went, a new study found.

The study, published in the European Heart Journal was titled, "Acute effects of night-time noise exposure on blood pressure in populations living near airports."

The night noise study

Dr Jarup from the Imperial College of London lead the study. The 4 year study measured the blood pressure of 140 people every 15 mins while they slept in their home near Heathrow airport in London and 3 other major European airports.

They also tracked the decibel noise level in the homes.

The results

Blood pressure levels rose by an average of 6.2 mm Hg systolic and 7.4 mm Hg diastolic for noises over 35 decibels.

Blood pressure levels rose whether on not they were awake or asleep.

Dr Jarup told ABC News, "We know that noise from air traffic can be a source of irritation. But our research shows that it can also be damaging for people's health, which is particularly significant in light of plans to expand international airports."

Back to blood pressure news index