New Delhi: The noise of Diwali may fade after the celebrations, but its effects on health can last much longer. From ringing in the ears and temporary hearing loss to disturbed sleep, anxiety and increased blood pressure, doctors warn that exposure to loud firecrackers can take a toll on both physical and mental well-being, with children particularly vulnerable.
Dr Atul Kumar Mittal, chairman of ENT department at FMRI Gurgaon, said sudden exposure to loud sounds could damage the delicate structures of the inner ear, resulting in temporary or, in severe cases, permanent hearing loss and tinnitus, or ringing in the ears. Dr Gita Prakash, consultant of internal medicine at Max Hospital, said prolonged exposure to traffic, construction, loudspeakers and firecrackers could increase stress hormones and blood pressure, disturb sleep and cause irreversible hearing loss. “Noise is not just an annoyance, it is also a silent health hazard,” she said, adding that children are especially vulnerable. Even loud toys, television and firecrackers can cause harm,” she said, advising parents to keep volumes low, use hearing protection for children at loud events and ensure quiet time for sleep and study. Dr Neeta Kejriwal, HOD and director of paediatrics department at Pacific OneHealth, New Delhi, said sudden, high-intensity sounds could trigger fear, anxiety, irritability and sleep disturbances in children, while loud bursts might cause acoustic trauma, tinnitus and, in severe cases, permanent hearing damage. Children with autism spectrum disorder and sensory sensitivities may experience heightened distress and sensory overload, she said.
The impact of noise goes beyond the ears. “Chronic exposure can lead to poor concentration, delayed learning, irritability and disturbed sleep.