TIME: How Loud Noise Exposure Is Linked to Heart Disease

When we think about pollution, we think about fumes in the air, bacteria in what we eat or drink, but did you know that noise can also be a part of pollution? Chronic noise throughout the day can have major effects on your body.

TIME spoke with Dr. James O’Keefe, cardiologist at the Mid America Heart Institute, Saint Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City  about the effects noise can have on our health. “When we’re exposed to loud noises, the sympathetic nervous system dominates,” said Dr. O’Keefe. “That can really put your system on alert and makes you jumpy, which can wear down your resilience — just like any other type of physical or mental stress.”

O’Keefe said that, as a cardiologist who focuses on prevention, he’s read a lot about the connection between noise pollution and heart health. “But I don’t really think it’s something the average physician or cardiologist is particularly tuned into,” he said.

Dr. O'Keefe also talks about ways people can be conscious about the noise around you. 

Read TIME's full article: "How Loud Noise Exposure Is Linked to Heart Disease"