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White noise and the risk to brain health

ByHearology Publishing | Date: Tue Oct 14 2025

A picture of a white background noise going through a shiny pink brain

New research links loud sleep soundscapes to hearing damage and later-life dementia

Sleeping with loud white noise might seem like a harmless habit – but it could be damaging your hearing and increasing your risk of dementia, according to Dr Baibin Chen. 

The University of Michigan neurologist’s warning follows growing evidence that prolonged exposure to artificial background noise at night can harm auditory health, which has now been closely linked to cognitive decline.


Keep the volume low

White noise – a consistent background sound made up of multiple frequencies – is often used to mask disruptive noises and help people fall asleep. It can be natural, like rainfall, or artificial, such as fan sounds or purpose-built audio tracks.

But Dr Chen advises keeping volume under 50 decibels. “Over time, loud white noise can damage hearing, which is a well-established risk factor for dementia,” he said. His advice echoes the findings of a 2024 international review of 20 studies, which concluded that both the volume and duration of white noise exposure should be limited.


The link to dementia

Several large studies now point to hearing loss as one of the most significant – and modifiable – risk factors for dementia. One US study estimated that nearly a third of dementia cases in older adults are linked to hearing impairment. Researchers believe hearing loss may accelerate brain atrophy, increase the build-up of tau proteins and lead to social isolation, all of which contribute to cognitive decline.

Hearing aids appear to make a difference. In one cohort study, people with untreated hearing loss were significantly more likely to develop dementia than those who used hearing devices. These findings support a growing view that hearing protection and early intervention should play a central role in dementia prevention strategies.


Don’t forget the light

Noise isn’t the only environmental factor under scrutiny. Dr Chen also highlights the risks posed by light exposure during sleep. Even low levels of artificial or blue light can suppress melatonin, disrupt glucose regulation and interfere with brain repair processes. Reducing both noise and light in the bedroom is key to maintaining good sleep hygiene and long-term brain health.


White noise still has a role – but with limits

“Used properly, white noise can help people fall asleep and manage conditions like tinnitus, anxiety or stress,” said Micaela Stonestreet, a Clinical Audiologist at Hearology®. “But as with other sound sources such as headphones, sleep soundscapes should be used in moderation, in terms of both duration and volume.”

Researchers are still untangling the complex relationship between auditory decline and Alzheimer’s disease. Some believe shared factors – such as vascular damage or ageing pathways – may play a role. The case for hearing preservation, however, remains strong - particularly when everyday habits, like playing white noise at night, may quietly be causing harm. 


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