What is white noise?
THERE are various ways to improve your sleep, like keeping a regular schedule and exercising during the day.
Some people have turned to using white noise, but was is it, and is it bad for babies?
What is white noise?
The term "white noise" refers to a noise containing all frequencies in the spectrum of sound that can be heard, in equal measure.
As it covers multiple bands of audible sound, it has been called a broadband noise.
It's often likened to static sound produced by old untuned TVs or radios, and studies have looked at how it may affect sleep.
Some people use it as a sleeping aid, though the evidence for its effectiveness is mixed.
Does white noise help you sleep?
Sleep is incredibly important for your mental and physical health.
But many who find it hard to drop off have turned to white noise as an aid.
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Analysis of various studies that explore the effect white noise has on sleep has produced mixed results, according to an article published by the .
It was concluded that more research is required before it could be recommended widely as a sleep aid.
A study suggested that adults fall asleep 38 per sent faster while listening to it, and others have continued to find that it positively affects sleep.
Studies appear to show that white noise is beneficial for those living in the city, as it blocks out other sleep disrupting factors such as traffic, neighbours and aircraft.
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However, some people have found the low frequency buzzing irritating and distracting.
And users of it should be aware to keep the volume levels low.
Is white noise bad for babies?
Sleep is vital for the health and well-being of babies, as well as their brain development.
There are various methods to help your child sleep better at night, like warm baths.
But when babies can't sleep, parents may be tempted to try alternative methods.
There are white noise machines designed for infants, but be advised that though they might seem an attractive option when you've tried everything else, they could be damaging to your child, according to the .
Things to be aware of are:
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- Machines may exceed recommended noise limits for infants, and a study has found that being regularly exposed to these levels of sound pressure may damage hearing and auditory development
- Babies can develop a dependency on white noise machines to get to sleep, which may not be practical
- Not all infants respond well to it
Contact your GP or a paediatrician for advice on how best to help your child get the sleep they need.