When most people think of the dangers linked to high blood pressure– also known as hypertension– they often focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. Were you aware that not controlling high blood pressure could also heighten the probability of experiencing hearing loss, especially as you grow older?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, generally starts to show signs in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It may advance gradually and without obvious symptoms, but the damage it creates is often permanent. In many cases, this kind of hearing loss derives from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. An important but often disregarded factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to destroy the delicate 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 consistently too high, it puts substantial strain on your blood vessels. Over time, this can cause the vessels to condense, narrow, or become damaged, increasing your risk for severe health problems– including hearing loss.
Understanding blood pressure: breaking down two numerical components:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) measures the pressure during heartbeats.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) measures pressure between beats.
Categories of blood pressure
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
- Elevated: 120-129/<80 mm Hg
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg
- Severe Hypertension: Blood Pressure Above 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 a great place to start.
- Get regular exercise: Attempt to get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
- Minimize salt consumption by restricting processed and fast food eating, as they usually contain high levels of salt.
- Adhere to medication instructions: If recommended, consistently adhere to the instructions for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your physician.
- Reduce stress: Make time for calming activities including mindfulness exercises, gentle stretches, or quiet reflection to help you unwind and find balance in your daily life.
- To prevent damage from loud noises, make sure to limit the time you spend around them. Remember to use hearing protection whenever you are at a concert, working with noisy machinery, or in loud settings.
- Use ear protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can reduce the risk of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Regular exams with a hearing specialist can significantly enhance the success of treatment and overall ear health by recognizing any potential issues early on.
How high blood pressure can affect your ears
The ears are home to a complex network of tiny blood vessels that provide oxygen and nutrients to the auditory system. When high blood pressure affects these vessels, the structures in the ear, especially the cochlea and tiny 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. Unfortunately, they do not regrow once damaged. Because of this, hearing loss from vascular damage triggered by high blood pressure is often permanent.
High blood pressure has been found to be closely connected to the degree of hearing impairment according to scientific research. Individuals with normal blood pressure tend to preserve better hearing over time, while individuals with high blood pressure are at greater risk for both developing and worsening hearing impairment.
Is ear discomfort a symptom of high blood pressure?
Although high blood pressure can cause substantial blood vessel damage, it frequently does not exhibit noticeable warning signs. It is sometimes known as the “silent killer” because of this. A prevalent misconception is that sensations like “hot ears” or ear pressure indicate high blood pressure. Actually, these symptoms are more likely due to hormonal changes, stress, or emotional reactions.
Certain people who have high blood pressure might experience a worsening of tinnitus symptoms, identified by a relentless ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. If you experience persistent tinnitus or suspect hearing changes, it’s important to talk to a hearing care professional for a complete evaluation.
Controlling blood pressure and safeguarding your hearing
Blood pressure can frequently be regulated by making alterations to one’s lifestyle and receiving medical care. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the added advantage of protecting your hearing or halting its decline.
Tips for reducing blood pressure
While managing hypertension is essential, it’s also important to take practical measures to protect your ears.
Actions to protect your hearing health
Along with managing your blood pressure, the following practices can help you protect your hearing:
Worried about the potential threats to your hearing and cardiovascular health? Be proactiove.
If you are dealing with high blood pressure and are noticing issues with your hearing, like having to ask people to repeat themselves frequently, finding it difficult to hear in noisy environments, or needing to boost the volume on your devices, it is important to schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your auditory well-being is important. Act promptly as early intervention can have a substantial impact.
Reach out to us right now to begin the journey to improved hearing