When most individuals think of the risks associated with high blood pressure– also known as hypertension– they often focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. But did you know that unmanaged hypertension can also elevate your risk for hearing loss, particularly as you age?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, generally begins to show signs in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It might progress gradually and without noticeable symptoms, but the damage it causes is usually permanent. Age-related hearing loss often results from prolonged exposure to noise, resulting in slow deterioration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. One significant but often ignored contributing factor is high blood pressure, which can damage the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.
What is blood pressure and why should you pay attention to?
Blood pressure is a measure of the strength of blood flow in your arteries. Consistently high blood pressure can cause stress to your blood vessels. Prolonged exposure to this condition can result in arterial deterioration, causing the blood vessels to become stiff, constricted, or compromised, which in turn elevates the danger of developing severe health problems, including impaired hearing.
Your blood pressure reading is made up of two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) determines the pressure during heartbeats.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) gauges pressure between beats.
Blood pressure categories
- Healthy Blood Pressure: Below 120/80 mm Hg
- Slightly High: Blood Pressure Ranges from 120-129 over Less Than 80
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 140+/ 90+ mm Hg
- Severe High Blood Pressure: Exceeding 180/120 mm Hg (immediate medical attention necessary)
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet: Emphasize whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Consider starting with the DASH or Mediterranean diet for a healthy basis.
- Try to take part in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes each week to maintain regular exercise.
- Reduce salt intake: Limit processed and fast foods, which are often high in sodium.
- Stick to medication instructions: If advised, consistently follow 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.
- Steer clear of prolonged exposure to loud noise: Use ear protection when going to concerts, working with noisy equipment, or in loud environments.
- Use ear protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can minimize the risk of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Routine exams with a hearing specialist can considerably improve the success of treatment and total ear health by recognizing any potential issues early on.
The impact of high blood pressure on hearing health
The ears are home to a complex network of tiny blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the auditory system. When high blood pressure affects these vessels, the structures in the ear, especially the cochlea and small sensory hair cells referred to as stereocilia, might sustain damage.
The stereocilia play a crucial role in converting sound waves into electrical signals that can be understood by the brain. Regrettably, once they are damaged, they do not have the ability to restore themselves. Therefore, hearing loss resulting from vascular damage due to high blood pressure is frequently permanent.
High blood pressure has been found to be closely connected to the degree of hearing loss according to scientific research. Individuals with healthy blood pressure tend to maintain better hearing over time, while individuals with high blood pressure are at an increased danger for both developing and exacerbating hearing loss.
Can ear pain be a sign of high blood pressure?
Although high blood pressure can lead to substantial blood vessel damage, it frequently does not exhibit obvious warning signs. It is sometimes referred to as the “silent killer” because of this. Many individuals wrongly think that feelings like warm ears or pressure in the ears are indications of elevated 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 relentless ringing or buzzing sensation in the ears. If you have persistent tinnitus or suspect hearing changes, it’s essential to talk to a hearing care professional for a complete assessment.
How to regulate blood pressure and protect your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can typically be controlled through lifestyle modifications and medical treatment. Lowering your blood pressure might even help maintain your hearing or prevent further deterioration.
Strategies for reducing hypertension naturally
While managing hypertension is essential, it’s also crucial to take proactive measures to protect your hearing.
Actions to protect your hearing health
In addition to managing your blood pressure, the following practices can help you protect your hearing:
Worried about the potential risks to your hearing and cardiovascular health? Take action
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and are experiencing signs of hearing problems– such as frequently asking others to repeat themselves, struggling to hear conversations in noisy places, or turning up the volume on devices– it’s time to make an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your auditory well-being is important. Act promptly as early action can have a significant impact.
Reach out to us right now to begin the journey to better hearing