When most people think of the risks linked to high blood pressure– also known as hypertension– they tend to focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. Were you aware that not managing high blood pressure could also increase the likelihood 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 might progress gradually and without noticeable symptoms, but the damage it causes is often permanent. Age-related hearing loss frequently arises from prolonged exposure to noise, leading to gradual deterioration of the ear’s fragile mechanisms over time. One substantial but frequently overlooked contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can damage the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
Why is it significant to comprehend blood pressure?
Blood pressure is a measure of the power of blood flow in your arteries. When this pressure is persistently too high, it puts substantial 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 made up of two numbers:
- The systolic reading, which is the top number, indicates the force of blood flow when the heart contracts.
- The diastolic pressure, shown by the bottom number, assesses the pressure during the heart’s resting phase.
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
- Severe Hypertension: Blood Pressure Above 140/90 mm Hg
- Severe High Blood Pressure: Exceeding 180/120 mm Hg (immediate medical attention necessary)
- Embrace 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 foundation.
- Get regular exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
- Minimize salt consumption by restricting processed and fast food intake, as they usually contain high levels of sodium.
- Follow medication instructions: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your physician.
- Reduce stress: Incorporate relaxation strategies like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your daily regimen.
- To prevent damage from loud noises, be certain to limit the time you spend around them. Remember to use ear protection when you are at a concert, working with noisy machinery, or in loud settings.
- Use hearing protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can reduce the danger of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Routine check-ups with a hearing specialist can dramatically enhance the success of treatment and total ear health by recognizing any potential issues early on.
How high blood pressure can affect your ears
A fragile web of miniature blood vessels exists within the ears, providing the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it requires to function effectively. When high blood pressure affects these vessels, the structures in the ear, particularly the cochlea and small sensory hair cells called stereocilia, may suffer damage.
The stereocilia play a critical role in converting sound waves into electrical impulses that can be understood by the brain. Sadly, once they are harmed, they do not have the ability to heal themselves. Therefore, hearing impairment resulting from vascular damage as a result of high blood pressure is typically irreversible.
Scientific studies reveal a strong correlation between high blood pressure and the extent of hearing loss. People with healthy blood pressure tend to preserve better hearing over time, while those with hypertension are at greater danger for both developing and exacerbating hearing impairment.
Is ear soreness a sign of high blood pressure?
Although high blood pressure can lead to considerable blood vessel damage, it often does not manifest obvious warning signs. It is sometimes known as the “silent killer” as a result of this. A common misconception is that sensations like “hot ears” or ear pressure suggest high blood pressure. In reality, these symptoms are more likely caused by hormonal changes, stress, or emotional responses.
Certain people who have high blood pressure may experience a worsening of tinnitus symptoms, characterized by a relentless ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. If you have chronic tinnitus or notice hearing changes, it’s important to consult 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 often be managed through lifestyle changes and medical care. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the additional benefit of protecting your hearing or stopping its decline.
Tips for reducing blood pressure
Managing blood pressure is crucial, but it’s equally important to take preventive measures to safeguard your hearing health.
Actions to protect your hearing health
Along with managing your blood pressure, the following practices can help you protect your hearing:
Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Be proactiove.
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension and are experiencing signs of hearing problems– including regularly asking others to repeat themselves, struggling with conversations in loud places, or cranking up the volume on devices– it’s time to schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your hearing health matters. Don’t wait– early intervention can make a substantial difference.
Reach out to us right away to take the first step toward better hearing.
