Many people normally think of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease as the main health concerns associated with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. But did you realize that unmanaged hypertension can also increase your danger for hearing loss, particularly as you get older?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, generally begins to show indicators in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It develops slowly with few noticeable symptoms, yet the harm it inflicts can be lasting and permanent. In many cases, this kind of hearing loss derives from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. An important but frequently disregarded factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to destroy the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.
Why is it important to understand blood pressure?
Blood pressure is a measure of the strength of blood flow in your arteries. When this pressure is persistently too high, it puts substantial strain on your blood vessels. Extended exposure to this condition can lead to arterial deterioration, causing the blood vessels to become stiff, constricted, or jeopardized, which in turn raises the risk of developing severe health issues, including impaired hearing.
Comprehending blood pressure: breaking down two numerical components:
- The systolic reading, which is the top number, indicates the force of blood flow when the heart contracts.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) gauges pressure between beats.
Blood pressure categories
- 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)
- 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 basis.
- Get routine exercise: Attempt to get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
- Cut down on salt consumption by limiting processed and fast food intake, as they usually incorporate high levels of sodium.
- Follow medication instructions: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your physician.
- Minimize stress: Incorporate relaxation strategies like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your daily regimen.
- Steer clear of extended exposure to loud noise: Wear hearing protection when attending concerts, working with noisy equipment, or in noisy environments.
- Use ear protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can reduce the danger of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Schedule routine hearing tests: Early detection of hearing loss can result in better treatment results and long-term hearing health.
The impact of high blood pressure on ear health
A fragile web of miniature blood vessels resides within the ears, supplying the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it requires to function properly. When hypertension compromises these vessels, the ear structures– particularly the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells known as stereocilia– can become damaged.
The stereocilia play a critical role in converting sound waves into electrical impulses 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 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 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 worsening hearing loss.
Can ear pain be a sign of high blood pressure?
Despite the vascular harm it causes, high blood pressure rarely appears with noticeable symptoms. It is often called the “silent killer” because of this. A prevalent myth is that sensations such as “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 with high blood pressure might experience a worsening of tinnitus symptoms, identified by a persistent ringing or buzzing sensation 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 manage blood pressure and safeguard your hearing
Blood pressure can usually be regulated by making alterations to one’s lifestyle and receiving medical care. Lowering your blood pressure might even help maintain your hearing or stop further degeneration.
Tips for lowering blood pressure
Managing blood pressure is crucial, but it’s equally important to take preventive steps to safeguard your hearing health.
Protecting your hearing: essential steps
Along with controlling your blood pressure, the following practices can help you safeguard your hearing:
Worried about hearing loss and blood pressure? Take action
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and are experiencing indications of hearing difficulty– such as regularly asking others to repeat what they said, struggling to hear conversations in loud locations, or turning 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 significant difference.
Contact us right away to take the first step toward better hearing.
