When most individuals think of the risks associated with high blood pressure– also called hypertension– they tend to focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. But did you realize that unmanaged hypertension can also increase your risk for hearing loss, especially as you get older?
Presbycusis, also known as age-related hearing loss, generally begins to become noticeable in individuals aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It might progress gradually and without obvious symptoms, but the damage it creates is often permanent. In many instances, this type of hearing loss stems from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. One considerable but often overlooked contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can harm the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.
Why is it important to comprehend blood pressure?
Blood pressure tracks the force of blood pushing through 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, increasing your risk for severe health problems– including hearing loss.
Your blood pressure reading is composed 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.
Categories of blood pressure
- 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
- 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. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is a great place to start.
- Get routine exercise: Attempt to get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
- Minimize salt consumption by limiting processed and fast food eating, as they usually contain high levels of sodium.
- Adhere to medication instructions: If recommended, consistently adhere to the guidelines for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your doctor.
- Reduce stress: Incorporate relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your daily regimen.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to loud noise: Use hearing protection when going to concerts, working with loud equipment, or in loud settings.
- Consider using protective gear for your ears, such as earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to reduce the risks of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
- Regular exams with a hearing specialist can substantially enhance the success of treatment and total ear health by catching any potential issues early on.
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 work properly. When high blood pressure impacts these vessels, the structures in the ear, especially the cochlea and small sensory hair cells referred to as stereocilia, might suffer damage.
These stereocilia are responsible for translating sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can translate. Regrettably, they do not regrow once damaged. As a result, hearing loss from vascular damage triggered by high blood pressure is usually irreversible.
Scientific studies reveal a powerful connection between high blood pressure and the extent of hearing loss. Individuals with healthy blood pressure tend to preserve better hearing over time, while individuals with high blood pressure are at an increased risk for both developing and exacerbating hearing impairment.
Can ear pain signify high blood pressure?
Even though high blood pressure can lead to significant blood vessel damage, it frequently does not exhibit obvious warning signs. It is often called the “silent killer” for this reason. A common myth 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.
However, some people with hypertension do report intensified symptoms of tinnitus– a ringing or buzzing in the ears. If you have ringing in your ears or notice any shifts in your hearing, it’s important to make an appointment with a specialist who can carry out a thorough examination to identify the cause.
Controlling blood pressure and protecting your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can often be managed through lifestyle modifications and medical care. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the added benefit of safeguarding your hearing or halting its decline.
Strategies for reducing hypertension naturally
Managing blood pressure is crucial, but it’s equally important to take preventive measures to protect your hearing health.
Safeguarding your hearing: vital steps
In addition to controlling your blood pressure, the following practices can help you safeguard your hearing:
Worried about the potential threats to your hearing and cardiovascular health? Be proactiove.
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension and are experiencing indications of hearing problems– including regularly asking others to repeat themselves, struggling with conversations in loud places, or turning up the volume on devices– it’s time to make an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your hearing health is important. Act promptly as early intervention can have a considerable impact.
Reach out to us right now to start the journey to improved hearing