When most individuals think of the dangers linked to high blood pressure– also called hypertension– they often focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. Were you aware that not controlling high blood pressure could also increase the probability of experiencing hearing loss, particularly as you grow older?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, typically begins to show signs in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It progresses slowly with few obvious signs, yet the damage it inflicts can be lasting and permanent. In many cases, this kind of hearing loss stems from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. One significant but frequently overlooked contributing factor is high blood pressure, which can harm the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
Why is it important to understand blood pressure?
Blood pressure measures the force of blood moving through 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:
- The systolic reading, which is the higher number, signifies the force of blood flow when the heart contracts.
- 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 is characterized as blood pressure readings of 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg.
- Extreme Hypertension: Blood Pressure Above 140/90 mm Hg
- Severe High Blood Pressure: Exceeding 180/120 mm Hg (immediate medical attention necessary)
- Embrace a diet that supports heart health by emphasizing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is a great place to start.
- Try 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 typically high in salt.
- Comply with medication guidelines: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your physician.
- Minimize stress: Integrate relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your daily routine.
- Steer clear of extended exposure to loud noise: Wear ear protection when going to concerts, working with loud equipment, or in loud settings.
- Use hearing protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can minimize the risk of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Schedule routine hearing tests: Early detection of hearing loss can lead to better treatment results and long-term auditory health.
The impact of high blood pressure on ear health
A fragile web of miniature blood vessels exists within the ears, providing the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it requires to function properly. When hypertension jeopardize these vessels, the ear structures– particularly the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells known as stereocilia– can become damaged.
These stereocilia are in charge of translating sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can interpret. Sadly, once they are damaged, they do not have the ability to repair themselves. Therefore, hearing impairment resulting from vascular damage as a result of high blood pressure is typically permanent.
High blood pressure has been found to be closely connected to the degree of hearing loss according to scientific research. Individuals with normal blood pressure tend to maintain better hearing over time, while those with hypertension are at an increased risk for both developing and worsening hearing loss.
Can ear pain signify high blood pressure?
Although high blood pressure can lead to significant blood vessel damage, it often does not exhibit obvious warning signs. It is frequently referred to as the “silent killer” as a result of this. A prevalent myth is that sensations like “hot ears” or ear pressure indicate high blood pressure. Actually, these symptoms are more likely caused by hormonal changes, stress, or emotional responses.
Certain individuals with high blood pressure might experience an exacerbation of tinnitus symptoms, identified by a relentless ringing or buzzing sensation in the ears. If you have ringing in your ears or detect any shifts in your hearing, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a specialist who can carry out a detailed assessment to determine the cause.
Controlling blood pressure and safeguarding your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can often be controlled through lifestyle changes and medical care. Decreasing your blood pressure could also have the added advantage of protecting your hearing or halting its decline.
Tips for lowering blood pressure
While managing hypertension is essential, it’s also important to take proactive measures to protect your ears.
Safeguarding your hearing: vital measures
Besides managing your blood pressure, these actions can also aid in safeguarding your hearing:
Worried about hearing loss and blood pressure? Take action
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and are experiencing signs of hearing difficulty– such as regularly asking people to repeat themselves, struggling with conversations in loud locations, or turning up the volume on devices– it’s time to schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your auditory well-being is important. Act promptly as early intervention can have a significant impact.
Reach out to us now to start the journey to improved hearing
