Many people typically consider heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease as the main health concerns associated with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Were you aware that not managing high blood pressure could also heighten the probability of experiencing hearing loss, especially as you grow older?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, typically starts to show signs in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It may progress gradually and without obvious symptoms, but the damage it creates is usually permanent. In many instances, this type of hearing loss derives from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. One considerable but frequently overlooked contributing factor is high blood pressure, which can harm the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.
Why is it important to understand blood pressure?
Blood pressure is a measure of the power of blood flow in your arteries. Consistently high blood pressure can cause strain to your blood vessels. Over time, this can cause the vessels to stiffen, narrow, or become damaged, increasing your risk for severe health issues– including hearing loss.
Your blood pressure reading is composed of two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) measures the pressure during heartbeats.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) measures pressure between beats.
Blood pressure categories
- Healthy Blood Pressure: Below 120/80 mm Hg
- Elevated: 120-129/<80 mm Hg
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 140+/ 90+ mm Hg
- Hypertensive Crisis: Over 180/120 mm Hg (emergency care required)
- Take advantage of a diet that promotes heart health by emphasizing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is an excellent place to begin.
- Get regular exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
- Decrease sodium intake: Limit processed and fast foods, which are often high in salt.
- Stick to medication instructions: If recommended, consistently adhere to the instructions for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your doctor.
- Minimize stress: Integrate relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your day-to-day regimen.
- Avoid extended exposure to loud noise: Use hearing protection when attending concerts, working with loud equipment, or in noisy settings.
- Use ear protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can reduce the danger of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Routine exams with a hearing specialist can dramatically enhance the effectiveness of treatment and total ear health by catching any potential issues early on.
The consequences of high blood pressure on hearing health
A delicate web of miniature blood vessels exists within the ears, providing the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it requires to function properly. When high blood pressure affects these vessels, the structures in the ear, especially the cochlea and small sensory hair cells referred to as stereocilia, may suffer damage.
These stereocilia are in charge of converting sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can translate. Sadly, once they are harmed, they do not have the ability to repair themselves. Therefore, hearing loss resulting from vascular damage due to high blood pressure is typically irreversible.
High blood pressure has been discovered to be closely connected to the level of hearing impairment according to scientific research. Individuals who have regular blood pressure levels are more likely to preserve their hearing abilities as they age, whereas individuals who have high blood pressure are more susceptible to experiencing hearing loss that can worsen over time.
Is ear soreness a symptom of high blood pressure?
Even though high blood pressure can cause substantial blood vessel damage, it often does not exhibit noticeable warning signs. It is frequently referred to as the “silent killer” because of this. A common misconception is that sensations like “hot ears” or ear pressure suggest high blood pressure. Actually, these symptoms are more likely caused by hormonal changes, stress, or emotional reactions.
Certain people with high blood pressure may experience a worsening of tinnitus symptoms, characterized by a persistent ringing or buzzing sensation in the ears. If you experience chronic tinnitus or suspect hearing changes, it’s essential to consult a hearing care professional for a complete assessment.
How to manage blood pressure and protect your hearing
Blood pressure can usually be controlled by making alterations to one’s lifestyle and getting medical care. Reducing your blood pressure might even help maintain your hearing or prevent further degeneration.
Tips for reducing blood pressure
While treating hypertension is essential, it’s also crucial to take practical measures to protect your hearing.
Actions to safeguard your hearing health
Besides regulating your blood pressure, these behaviors can also aid in safeguarding your hearing:
Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Be proactiove.
If you are dealing with high blood pressure and are experiencing problems with your hearing, like having to ask people to repeat themselves frequently, finding it difficult to hear in noisy settings, or needing to boost the volume on your devices, it is important to make an appointment with a hearing professional.
Your auditory well-being is important. Act quickly as early action can have a substantial impact.
Reach out to us right now to start the journey to better hearing