We may have different views on what makes the perfect work environment, but we can all agree that unwanted noise isn't part of the equation. Whether it's an office, school, hospital or even your home, sudden, loud or variable noises are irritating and distracting. But did you also know it's bad for you?

A Harper’s Bazaar article, “How City Noise Is Slowly Killing You”, cites a study in which “clerical workers in a noisy room were less motivated to complete cognitive tasks and had elevated stress hormone levels, compared to those in a quiet room—but they didn’t feel particularly stressed.” Essentially, we have a physical reaction to unwanted noise. So, that office mate who likes to put her phone on speaker or the man two desks away with no concept of what an "inside voice" is could be raising more than your temper.