Many people normally think of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease as the primary health concerns related to high blood pressure, also called hypertension. But did you realize that unmanaged hypertension can also increase your risk for hearing loss, especially as you get older?
Presbycusis, also known as age-related hearing loss, generally begins to become noticeable in people aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It develops slowly with few noticeable signs, yet the damage it does can be lasting and permanent. Age-related hearing loss often results from prolonged exposure to noise, leading to slow deterioration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. One significant but frequently overlooked contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can damage the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
What is blood pressure and why should you care?
Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing through your arteries. When this pressure is persistently too high, it puts excessive strain on your blood vessels. Extended exposure to this condition can lead to arterial deterioration, causing the blood vessels to become stiff, constricted, or compromised, which in turn raises the risk of developing serious health issues, including impaired hearing.
Your blood pressure reading is composed of two numbers:
- The systolic reading, which is the top number, signifies the force of blood flow when the heart contracts.
- The diastolic pressure, indicated by the bottom number, assesses the pressure during the heart’s resting phase.
Categories of blood pressure
- Normal: Less than 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
- Hypertensive Crisis: Over 180/120 mm Hg (emergency care required)
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet: Focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Consider starting with the DASH or Mediterranean diet for a healthy basis.
- Strive to engage in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes every week to maintain regular exercise.
- Decrease salt intake: Reduce processed and fast foods, which are often high in salt.
- Follow medication guidelines: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your doctor.
- Reduce stress: Incorporate relaxation strategies like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your day-to-day regimen.
- Steer clear of prolonged exposure to loud noise: Wear hearing protection when attending concerts, working with loud equipment, or in loud environments.
- Use ear protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can minimize the risk of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Schedule regular hearing tests: Early detection of hearing loss can lead to better treatment outcomes and long-term hearing health.
The impact of high blood pressure on hearing health
The ears are home to a complex network of little 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 called stereocilia, might sustain damage.
These stereocilia are in charge of translating sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can interpret. Regrettably, once they are harmed, they do not have the ability to restore themselves. Therefore, hearing loss resulting from vascular damage as a result of high blood pressure is typically irreversible.
High blood pressure has been discovered to be closely linked to the level of hearing loss according to scientific research. Individuals who have healthy blood pressure levels are more likely to maintain their hearing abilities as they age, whereas those who have high blood pressure are more susceptible to experiencing hearing loss that can worsen over time.
Is ear discomfort a sign of high blood pressure?
Even though high blood pressure can lead to considerable blood vessel damage, it frequently does not exhibit obvious warning signs. It is sometimes referred to as the “silent killer” as a result of this. A common myth is that sensations such as “hot ears” or ear pressure suggest high blood pressure. It’s likely that these symptoms are actually the result of fluctuations in hormone levels, high levels of stress, or strong emotional reactions.
Certain people who have high blood pressure may experience an exacerbation of tinnitus symptoms, identified by a persistent ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. If you have chronic tinnitus or notice hearing changes, it’s essential to consult a hearing care professional for a comprehensive evaluation.
How to regulate blood pressure and protect your hearing
Blood pressure can frequently be regulated by making alterations to one’s lifestyle and getting medical care. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the additional benefit of protecting your hearing or stopping its decline.
Strategies for decreasing hypertension naturally
Regulating blood pressure is essential, but it’s equally important to take preventive measures to protect your hearing health.
Safeguarding your hearing: vital measures
Besides regulating your blood pressure, these behaviors can also aid in protecting your hearing:
Worried about the potential threats to your hearing and cardiovascular health? Be proactiove.
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension and are experiencing signs of hearing problems– such as frequently asking people to repeat what they said, struggling with conversations in noisy locations, or cranking up the volume on devices– it’s time to make an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your hearing health matters. Don’t wait– early intervention can make a substantial difference.
Contact us today to take the first step toward better hearing.