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What Are the Health Risks of Living Near Wind Turbines?

Wind turbines use wind energy to create electricity and are considered a solution to some of the world's energy problems. The benefits of wind energy include reduced environmental dangers and fewer pollution-related health risks.

Some critics doubt the safety of wind power, however. In fact, Dr. Nina Pierpont, a pediatrician, has identified several problems related to turbines that she calls "wind turbine syndrome." Patients suffering from this have reported a wide range of symptoms in several different areas of the body. But controversy surrounds the supposed health risks. Several opponents claim that little research has been conducted to show an adequate correlation between turbines and ill health. Nevertheless, several different types of health issues have been reported by those living in proximity to wind turbines.

  1. Vibroacoustic Disease

    • Some residents living near wind turbines have suffered from heart palpitations, increased blood pressure, heart disease, circulation problems and tachycardia (increased heart rate). These are all symptoms of an associated condition known as vibroacoustic disease.This disorder is related to the low-frequency noise and vibrations associated with wind turbines. Patients suffering from this disorder may endure changes to the heart and lungs or develop epilepsy.

    Problems with Ears or Hearing

    • Those living in proximity to wind turbines have reported hearing loss as well as a severe form of ringing in the ears called tinnitus. Both of these issues have been linked to the constant noise and increased inner ear vibrations that occur as a result of the spinning turbines. USAToday.com has reported that wind turbines "scream" when winds reach speeds of more than 15 mph.

    Headaches

    • Increased instances of headaches and migraines are both identified as health problems by those living near wind turbines. The headaches are believed to be caused by the "whooshing" produced by the turbines. According to USAToday.com, some residents living close to turbines compare the noise to plane takeoffs and landings, attributing headaches to the loud noise. In several parts of the United States, residents living near wind turbines have reported headaches.

    Nervous System Complications

    • Several people living near wind turbines have reported internal pulsings, a feeling of the need to flee, internal quivering and general irritability. Increased instances of panic attacks are also documented. Additionally, anxiety and malaise have been reported by some. Conditions of the nervous system have been attributed to the abnormal stimulation of the inner ear by the low-frequency noise produced by turbines.

    Sleep Disturbances

    • Instances of sleep disturbances associated with the noise from wind turbines have also been reported. According to The Independent, nightmares occur more often in some children who live near the turbines. A 2008 study funded by the European Union found that the most widespread complaint of those living near turbines was the disruption of sleep due to sound, changes in light or the starting and stopping of turbine blades.

    Epilepsy and Seizures

    • Light that is thrown off of moving turbine blades is known as "flicker." These intense flashes or pulses of light are triggers for seizures in epileptics. Several seizures have been reported by epileptics living near wind farms.

    Other Health Problems

    • Other health problems that are believed to be associated with wind turbines include nausea, problems with balance, decreased memory, decreased concentration, fatigue, decreased motivation, vertigo and dizziness.

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