Sound is energy, the vibration of molecules in a medium. Anyone who’s ever stood in front of a loudspeaker at a concert will attest to feeling the sweet lower frequency sound waves pulsing against their body. Sound is power, but it also has power–to heal as well as hurt. This duality plays out audiologically, for example, in that hearing the full range of sound is critical for the ongoing treatment of hearing loss, not to mention language & cognitive development. And yet exposure to loud sound damages the inner ear. Different frequencies of sound energy also exhibit this dichotomy to heal or hurt.
Back in 2017, news reports first appeared of U.S. diplomats stationed in Havana, Cuba experiencing unexplained symptoms such as ringing in the ear (tinnitus), migraines, balance issues and cognitive difficulties. Before the onset of symptoms, many sufferers reported feeling vibrations or hearing sounds similar to crickets or cicadas while others heard a grinding noise. What has since been labeled “Havana syndrome” has subsequently been reported by other U.S. citizens employed/stationed overseas. Medical evaluation of many sufferers, including neuroimaging, indicated brain trauma typically seen with concussions.
Initial suspicion for the cause of Havana syndrome was some sort of microwave weapon. And suspicion immediately fell on Russia because of their previous use of a directed microwave beam at the U.S embassy in Moscow, dubbed the “Moscow Signal”. Research now indicates the likely cause is pulsed radio frequency/microwave (very high frequency sound) exposure. The sounds heard by many sufferers, along with the physical signs and symptoms, are consistent with this type of exposure, a phenomenon known as the Frey effect.
Even though blame was initially attributed to the hostile act of a foreign power, no ‘smoking gun’ has been found. In fact, theories have been postulated pointing to natural phenomena. Analysis of audio recordings made during incidents related to Havana syndrome were consistent with the calling sound of the Indies short-tailed cricket. And just this past week, the CIA released a report stating there’s no indication Havana syndrome is the result of a campaign by a hostile power.
Another recent mysterious auditory phenomena has been troubling folks in England.
Dr. Geoff Leventhall, who has studied industrial or urban ‘hum’ for over 50 years, thinks that may be the culprit–and that it’s a growing issue globally. “The hum is widespread, particularly in western countries,” he says – adding that it’s been reported across towns & cities in the UK.
These are unfortunate, yet fascinating, examples of sound’s power to negatively affect us. Next month’s piece will focus on the amazing healing power of sound.
Please continue to love your community by getting vaccinated (boosted) & continuing to mask up/distance when/where appropriate. And please always support our local businesses.
