The research on white noise is mixed: While some studies found it has little benefit on sleep or could even interrupt sleep, others say it can reduce heart rate and respiratory rate, as well as mask outside noises that keep people awake.
But could something called “sound masking” be more beneficial than white noise? Doctors tend to think so. Ahead, they explain sound masking, its benefits and how it compares to white noise.?SIGN UP for Parade’s health newsletter with expert-approved tips, healthy eats, exercises, news & more to help you stay healthy & feel your best self?
The “sound masking” noise is more comfortable and pleasant; it fits into the background. White noise, on the other hand, can actually be loud and jarring in comparison.
How Sound Masking Helps With Sleep and Concentration
Basically, while sound masking is a noise, it’s a less distracting one. “Our brains are wired to notice changes in sound, such that random environmental sounds can cause a change in alertness and attention,” explains Dr. Hamid Djalilian, MD, a professor of otolaryngology, neurosurgery and biomedical engineering at the University of California, Irvine and the chief medical advisor at NeuroMed Tinnitus Clinic. “Sound masking uses low-level sound to reduce this effect in our brain’s attention center.”
Depending on your housing situation, you may hear a lot of sounds when you’re trying to go to bed: cars honking, the fan whirring, your roommate talking or your dog barking. Sound masking “masks” those other noises that can be intermittent and therefore more distracting.
It can help with health conditions where the noise is internal, too, like for people with tinnitus. Dr. Djalilian says sound masking is especially important for those individuals because when they're trying to sleep, the tinnitus sound can feel magnified.
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Effect on concentration
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Dr. Broderick’s go-to is the Ozlo Sleepbuds since they can be used anytime, are comfortable for side sleeping, and can be customized in case you share a bed.
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Sources:
Dr. Meredith Broderick, MD, a triple board-certified sleep neurologist and Ozlo medical advisory board memberDr. Hamid Djalilian, MD, a doctor who’s board-certified and fellowship-trained in otology, neurotology and skull base surgeryWhite Noise, Sleep FoundationGen Z’s White Noise Habit, NewsweekCan white noise really help you sleep better?, Harvard Health PublishingHence then, the article about the white noise alternative sleep doctors want you to try asap was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
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