From ear-splitting aircraft noise and the drone of traffic to the hum of an open-plan office, the world around us can feel loud.

But is it getting louder? And is this having any effect on our health - and even on how long we live?

We find out when living close to a road, railway or airport might go from nuisance to health hazard, with potential effects on our sleep, heart health, mood and concentration.

It’ll get loud as we do some tests in a lab to explore how unwanted sound might affect the rest of the body beyond our ears, and we sift through the growing research on the impact of noise. Who might be most at risk and why?

We also find out why our reaction to noise might be about more than just volume - and we go in search of some simple tips to help.

Keep in touch with the Inside Health team at [email protected]

Presenter: James Gallagher