State briefly how is noise pollution detrimental to human health.

Noise pollution is detrimental to human health because of the following effects-

1. Effect on hearing or deafness — Continuous exposure to noise levels above 100 dB has an adverse effect on hearing ability within a fairly short time.
2. Effect on Communication — External sounds can interfere with communication at important places like schools and offices. It also effects the use of radio and television.
3. Interference with sleep — Noisy conditions near residential areas at night cause difficulties in sleeping.
4. Mental or Physiological effects — Even short exposure to noise in excess of about 100 dB can lead to mental illness, cardiovascular diseases, stomach ulcers, respiratory disorders, headache and dizziness. It effects the foetus as well.
5. Effects on physical health and psychological problems — Exposure to noise in excess of about 100 dB can cause damage to inner ear. It also leads to problems like speech interference, annoyance, fatigue,sleep interference and emotional distress.