Do We Feel Pain from Inaudible Noises?

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In summary, our ears can feel pain from loud volumes, whether it is from bass or sirens. However, we do not feel pain from noises that are outside of our hearing range, such as a dog whistle, because our ears cannot vibrate fast enough to absorb the energy at that frequency. While it is possible for high powers of ultrasonic sound to cause damage, the body can also respond to frequencies that are not typically detected by our auditory sensors. In contrast, infrasound may not cause as much pain but can still lead to unpleasant effects like nausea and anxiety. It is important to note that pain from loud noises may be different from actual damage caused by the energy absorbed.
  • #1
bassplayer142
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We all know that you feel pain as volume increases. Whether it is loud bass or a really loud siren you can feel the pain. Do we feel pain from noises that our ears cannot recieve. Say, a dog whistle that is out of a humans hearing range. Does it not cause pain or is it not loud enough to do the trick.
 
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  • #2
No because you don't respond to it. It's not the volume but the fact that hairs in your ears can't vibrate fast enough to absorb (much) energy at that frequency.
Although it would be possible to do damage from very high powers of ultrasonic sound.
 
  • #3
The body can, in theory, respond to frequencies that auditory sensors are insensitive to.
 
  • #4
Ultrasound can cause all kinds of pain, from headaches and toothaches right through to unconsciousness. It depends upon the power, the frequency, and harmonics.
Infrasound generally doesn't hurt as much, but it can cause nausea, anxiety, anger, and other unpleasant conditions.
 
  • #5
I was thinking that there was a different mechanism for pain as in 'Ouch that's a loud noise' and actual damage due to the absorbed power - is that correct?
 

1. What are inaudible noises and how do they affect our perception of pain?

Inaudible noises are sounds that are too high or too low for the human ear to detect. These noises can still impact our perception of pain through a phenomenon called the "phantom effect." This effect occurs when our brain associates a certain sound frequency with pain, even if we cannot hear it.

2. Can inaudible noises actually cause physical pain?

While inaudible noises can affect our perception of pain, they do not have the ability to cause physical pain. The phantom effect is a result of the brain's interpretation of the noise, rather than the noise itself causing physical harm.

3. Are some individuals more susceptible to feeling pain from inaudible noises?

There is currently no research to suggest that certain individuals are more susceptible to feeling pain from inaudible noises. However, some people may be more sensitive to certain frequencies of sound, which could impact their perception of pain.

4. Can inaudible noises be used for pain management?

Some studies have shown that inaudible noises can have a calming effect on individuals and may be used as a form of pain management. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and limitations of using inaudible noises for pain management.

5. What are some common sources of inaudible noises that can impact our perception of pain?

There are various sources of inaudible noises that can impact our perception of pain, such as ultrasonic devices, high-frequency electrical equipment, and even some medical procedures. Additionally, our own bodies can produce inaudible noises, such as the sound of our joints moving, which can also impact our perception of pain.

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