When most individuals think of the risks linked to high blood pressure– also called hypertension– they often focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. But did you realize that unmanaged hypertension can also elevate your danger for hearing loss, particularly as you get older?
Presbycusis, also known as age-related hearing loss, normally starts to become noticeable in individuals aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It may progress gradually and without obvious symptoms, but the damage it causes is often permanent. In many cases, this type of hearing loss stems from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. One substantial but often overlooked contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can harm the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
What is blood pressure and why should you care?
Blood pressure is a measure of the power of blood flow in your arteries. When this pressure is persistently too high, it puts excessive strain on your blood vessels. Over time, this can cause the vessels to stiffen, narrow, or become damaged, raising your risk for severe health problems– including hearing loss.
Your blood pressure reading is composed of two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) determines the pressure during heartbeats.
- The diastolic pressure, indicated by the bottom number, assesses the pressure during the heart’s resting phase.
Categories of blood pressure
- 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)
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet: Focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is an excellent place to begin.
- Get routine exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
- Decrease sodium intake: Reduce processed and fast foods, which are often high in sodium.
- Adhere to medication instructions: If recommended, consistently adhere to the instructions for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your physician.
- Reduce stress: Incorporate relaxation strategies like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your daily routine.
- Steer clear of extended exposure to loud noise: Use ear protection when attending concerts, working with noisy equipment, or in noisy environments.
- Consider utilizing protective gear for your ears, including earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to lower the risks of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
- Regular exams with a hearing specialist can significantly improve the effectiveness of treatment and overall ear health by recognizing any potential issues early on.
The consequences of high blood pressure on ear health
A delicate web of miniature blood vessels exists within the ears, providing the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function effectively. When hypertension compromises these vessels, the ear structures– particularly the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells called stereocilia– can become damaged.
These stereocilia are in charge of converting sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can translate. Regrettably, once they are damaged, they do not have the ability to heal themselves. Therefore, hearing loss resulting from vascular damage as a result of high blood pressure is typically permanent.
Scientific studies reveal a strong connection between high blood pressure and the severity of hearing loss. People with normal blood pressure tend to maintain better hearing over time, while individuals with hypertension are at an increased risk for both developing and worsening hearing impairment.
Can ear pain be a sign of high blood pressure?
Although high blood pressure can lead to significant blood vessel damage, it often does not exhibit noticeable warning signs. It is frequently known as the “silent killer” as a result of this. A prevalent myth is that sensations like “hot ears” or ear pressure suggest high blood pressure. It’s probable that these symptoms are really the outcome of fluctuations in hormone levels, high levels of stress, or intense emotional responses.
Certain people with high blood pressure may experience an exacerbation of tinnitus symptoms, characterized by a relentless ringing or buzzing sensation in the ears. If you experience chronic tinnitus or notice hearing changes, it’s essential to consult a hearing care professional for a complete assessment.
Controlling blood pressure and safeguarding your hearing
Blood pressure can frequently be regulated by making alterations to one’s lifestyle and getting medical care. Lowering your blood pressure might even help maintain your hearing or prevent further degeneration.
Strategies for decreasing hypertension naturally
Managing blood pressure is essential, but it’s equally vital to take preventive measures to protect your hearing health.
Safeguarding your hearing: vital steps
Besides regulating your blood pressure, these behaviors can also aid in safeguarding your hearing:
Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Take action
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 hard to hear in noisy environments, or needing to increase the volume on your devices, it is essential to make an appointment with a hearing professional.
Your hearing health matters. Don’t wait– early treatment can make a considerable difference.
Contact us right away to take the first step toward better hearing.