The world that we live in is filled with sounds, some are comforting and some could be jarring too. But what if the constant noise surrounding us is doing us more harm than we realize? There has been immense research that shows that noise is not just a nuisance, but a silent killer and affects our health in ways we do not even know. There are associations of sound causing heart attacks, type 2 diabetes, and dementia.

How Does Your Body Respond To Noise?

Noise is seen as an annoyance, but it effects can go beyond what we imagine. When we hear a sound, it travels through the ear to the brain. This is where it gets processed by the amygdala. It is a region that is responsible for emotional responses. This also triggers a stress response- our heart rate increases, our blood pressure rises, and stress hormones like cortisol flood our system.

This response is also designed to help us react to immediate threats. Especially, if we hear the sound of a predator approaching. However, when we are exposed to constant noise, this response is triggered repeatedly and could compel us to live in a long-term anxious state.

Hidden Health Risks

Many studies including Harvard Health and theAmerican College of Cardiology have found associations of noise with health problems including putting a person at a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart strokes, attacks, and high blood pressure. The constant activation of the stress response can take a toll on the body, increasing inflammation and making it harder for the heart and circulatory system to function properly. Over time, this can lead to serious health conditions like heart disease and diabetes.

Even more troubling, research suggests that noise pollution may contribute to mental health issues. Studies have found a strong connection between exposure to noise and disturbed sleep, which in turn can cause anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline. The World Health Organization estimates that noise contributes to around 12,000 premature deaths annually across Europe alone. This invisible threat, however, is often overlooked because the effects are gradual and cumulative.

Noise and Sleep: A Silent Disturbance

One of the most insidious aspects of noise pollution is its impact on sleep. Even when we are asleep, our bodies are not fully immune to the effects of sound. Our ears never fully “turn off,” meaning that even faint noises can disrupt our sleep cycle. Research has shown that people who live in noisy environments—whether near busy roads, airports, or urban centers—often experience fragmented sleep, leading to fatigue and a weakened immune system. Over time, this chronic lack of restful sleep can lead to significant health problems, including an increased risk of developing cognitive disorders such as dementia.

The Urbanization Problem

As cities continue to grow, noise pollution is becoming more widespread. Traffic noise, in particular, is one of the most common and harmful sources. The rise of urbanization means more cars, buses, and trains, all of which contribute to an ever-increasing din. This urban soundscape is often relentless, with little respite for those living within it. In densely populated cities, people are exposed to high decibel levels, which can exceed safe thresholds for heart health. In many cases, the sheer volume of sound is not just unpleasant; it’s dangerous.

What Can We Do About It?

The solution is not as simple as reducing noise in our immediate surroundings, though efforts to reduce traffic noise and limit industrial sounds are essential. Some cities have taken steps to create quieter spaces by converting busy roads into pedestrian zones or installing noise barriers. These measures have shown to have a positive impact on public health, with research suggesting that even small reductions in noise can prevent premature deaths and improve overall well-being.

American TV personality Kim Kardashian has opened up about the steps she takes to care for her health, including taking 35 supplements daily.

Speaking on a podcast, the 45-year-old mother admitted she suffers from “pill fatigue.”

“I take probably 35 supplements a day,” the reality star revealed. “I spread them out three times a day.”

The mother of four said she struggles particularly with fish oil supplements because of their lingering taste, and even wished there were an IV drip alternative available.

“I thought, ‘Okay, I can't do this fish oil anymore. I have pill fatigue. I have to stop these fish oil [supplements], and I got my bloodwork, and it was so evident that I stopped and I had to start again,” Kim said.

“I wish there was like an IV drip (for fish oil) I could do every day, and I would just do it on my way to work,” she added.

Kardashian Family Uses DEXA Scans

Also read: Amy Schumer Opens Up On Side Effects After “Botched” Colonoscopy And Weight Loss Journey

Further, Kim revealed that her family, including her mother, Kris Jenner, and sisters, regularly use DEXA scans to monitor bone density.

A DEXA scan (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is an imaging test that uses low-frequency X-rays to measure bone density and analyze total body composition, including lean muscle, fat mass, and visceral fat.

“I actually know a portable DEXA scan person that comes in a van, and you lie down,” she shared.

“Each one of my sisters and my mom — we all live in the same gated community — so we have the van drive by, and we all jump in the van, and you just lie down, and it scans your body maybe like three minutes. And it tells you all about your bone density.”

Kardashian also said she undergoes yearly scans with her family and is continuing to explore new wellness tools.

Kim's Diagnosis With Brain Aneurysm

Kim has also been diligent about monitoring her health in recent years. In a November 2025 episode of The Kardashians, she revealed that doctors had discovered a small aneurysm in her brain.

At the time, Kim explained that the aneurysm — a balloon-like bulge in a blood vessel in the brain — could be linked to the stress she had experienced over the years. She said her divorce from Kanye West, the responsibilities of being a single mother of four, her multiple business ventures, and studying law had all contributed to immense stress.

Shortly before that episode aired, Kim also discussed the aneurysm during an appearance on Good Morning America.

“It's just a good measure to go; make sure that you always check everything,” Kim said. “Health is wealth, and you just have to be careful with everything that you do.”

Persistent back pain is often ignored as a minor issue, but when it continues or worsens over time, it may be a sign of an underlying spinal condition. One such condition is spinal stenosis, which involves narrowing of one or more spaces within the spinal canal.

It can develop due to age-related changes, herniated discs, thickened ligaments, or previous injuries, most commonly affecting the lower back and neck. Since spinal stenosis progresses slowly and symptoms may appear mild at first, early detection becomes crucial to prevent long-term complications, including permanent nerve damage.

Why Is It Dangerous If Untreated?

In its early stages, spinal stenosis may cause mild discomfort, tingling, or numbness. However, as the narrowing worsens, pressure on the nerves increases. This can lead to chronic pain, weakness in the limbs, and difficulty walking or maintaining balance.

If ignored for a long time, the condition can result in permanent nerve damage. In severe cases, patients may experience loss of bladder or bowel control, a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Delayed treatment reduces the chances of reversing nerve damage, making early recognition more important.

What Are The Warning Signs To Watch Out For?

While occasional back pain is common, certain symptoms indicate something more serious:

• Persistent back or neck pain that worsens over time
• Numbness or tingling in the arms, legs, or feet
• Muscle weakness or reduced strength
• Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
• Pain that radiates down the legs, especially while standing or walking

How Can It Be Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of spinal stenosis focuses on identifying the extent of spinal narrowing and its impact on nerve function. It usually begins with a detailed assessment of symptoms and physical movement, followed by imaging tests such as spine X-rays, MRI, and CT scans.

In some cases, a CT myelogram may be advised for a more detailed view of the spinal canal and nerve compression. These tests help confirm the condition, locate the affected area, and determine its severity.

How Can It Be Treated?

Treatment depends on how advanced the condition is. In the early stages, simple measures are usually recommended, such as regular exercises like walking or stretching, correcting posture, making ergonomic changes in daily routine, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding activities that strain the spine.

However, in more severe cases where nerve compression significantly affects daily functioning, certain procedures may be required.

Minimally invasive spine decompression (MISD) is a modern surgical approach designed to alleviate pressure on spinal nerves while preserving as much of the natural spinal structure as possible. Unlike the traditional laminectomy, which often involves significant removal of bone and muscle, MISD focuses on precision and stability.

Spinal fusion joins two or more bones in the spine to improve stability and reduce excessive movement.

What Are The Tips To Prevent Spinal stenosis?

Preventing spinal stenosis or slowing its progression involves a combination of lifestyle changes and early care:

• Stay physically active: Regular exercise helps strengthen the muscles supporting the spine and reduces strain.
• Maintain good posture: Proper sitting and standing posture prevents unnecessary pressure on the spine.
• Avoid prolonged sitting: Taking frequent breaks helps reduce stiffness and improve spinal flexibility.
• Manage body weight: Excess weight increases pressure on the lower spine, worsening the condition.
• Be mindful while lifting: Using correct techniques prevents sudden strain or injury to the spine.

Ignoring symptoms can lead to irreversible nerve damage and long-term disability. With early diagnosis, proper lifestyle changes, and expert care, it is possible to manage the condition effectively and maintain a good quality of life.

American stand-up comedian and actress Amy Schumer has opened up on her colonoscopy procedure didn’t go quite as planned.

Speaking at the Not Skinny But Not Fat podcast, the 44-year-old Amy Schumer stated that she’s feeling "happier than I've ever been before," but admitted that she's also been experiencing some struggles.

“I actually had kind of a botched colonoscopy, so I’m not feeling very sexual,” she noted.

Schumer, who filed for an uncontested divorce with her husband of seven years, Chris Fischer, in January, reportedly didn't share any further details.

Previously, the Trainwreck star shared major insight into her health journey over the years—including how her diagnosis with Cushing Syndrome influenced her weight loss journey.

“I didn’t lose 30lbs, I lost 50,” Amy wrote in a post on social media platform Instagram. “Not to look hot which does feel fun and temporary. I did it to survive. I had a disease that makes your face extremely puffy and can kill you but the internet caught it and that disease has cleared.”

Cushing Syndrome is a hormonal condition that causes elevated levels of cortisol, and can cause death if left untreated, as per the National Library of Medicine.

Amy has also spoken of losing weight by using Mounjaro and her physical transformation via plastic surgery.

"I have been working to be pain free and I finally am," she wrote in a November Instagram post. “My endometriosis is better. My back is healing. I no longer have Cushing syndrome so my face went back to normal. I am grateful to be strong and healthy, especially for my son.”

Also read: ‘I Was Vocal About Cancer But Silent About Menopause Out Of Shame’, Says Actress Lisa Ray

What Is A Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a 15 to 60 minute medical procedure that is used to examine the entire inner lining of the large intestine, which includes rectum and colon for abnormalities, such as polyps, inflammation, or cancer.

A doctor uses a colonoscope, which is a thin, flexible tube with a camera to take images, remove polyps, or take issue samples.

Most health experts, including federal guidelines and the American Cancer Society, recommend that people at average risk for colorectal cancer start screening at age 45. This usually means getting a colonoscopy once every 10 years, or opting for stool-based tests every one to three years. These guidelines also play a role in whether insurance companies cover the tests.

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Even so, most cases of colon cancer are still diagnosed in people over 50. What’s worrying, though, is the steady rise in cases among younger adults in their 20s, 30s and 40s over the past few decades.

Access to colonoscopies remains a concern, especially in low and middle income countries. Further, screening rates among younger eligible adults remain low. Only about one in five people aged 44 to 49 are up to date with recommended screenings.

Experts say that if the screening age were lowered further, participation might drop even more. For now, the focus remains on improving awareness and encouraging those already eligible to get screened on time.