Many people normally consider heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease as the main health concerns related to high blood pressure, also called hypertension. But did you know that unmanaged hypertension can also increase your danger for hearing loss, especially as you get older?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, typically starts to show signs in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It may progress gradually and without obvious symptoms, but the damage it causes is often permanent. In many instances, this type of hearing loss derives from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. An essential but often ignored factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to destroy the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.
What is blood pressure and why should you pay attention to?
Blood pressure is a measure of the strength of blood flow in your arteries. Consistently high blood pressure can cause strain to your blood vessels. With time, this can cause the vessels to condense, narrow, or become damaged, raising your risk for serious health issues– including hearing loss.
Your blood pressure reading is composed of two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) measures the pressure during heartbeats.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) gauges pressure between beats.
Categories of blood pressure
- Healthy Blood Pressure: Below 120/80 mm Hg
- Elevated: 120-129/<80 mm Hg
- Stage 1 hypertension is defined as blood pressure readings of 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg.
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 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. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is a great place to begin.
- Strive to engage in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes every week to maintain regular exercise.
- Decrease sodium intake: Reduce processed and fast foods, which are often high in sodium.
- Follow medication guidelines: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your doctor.
- Decrease anxiety: Make time for calming activities including mindfulness exercises, mild stretches, or silent reflection to help you unwind and find balance in your daily life.
- To prevent damage from loud noises, make sure to restrict the time you spend around them. Don’t forget 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 danger of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Regular exams with a hearing specialist can dramatically improve the effectiveness of treatment and overall ear health by catching any potential issues early on.
The impact of high blood pressure on ear health
A delicate web of miniature blood vessels resides within the ears, supplying the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it requires to function properly. When high blood pressure impacts these vessels, the structures in the ear, particularly the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells referred to as stereocilia, might suffer damage.
These stereocilia are responsible for converting sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can translate. Regrettably, they do not regenerate once damaged. Because of this, hearing loss from vascular damage triggered by high blood pressure is often irreversible.
High blood pressure has been discovered to be closely linked to the degree of hearing impairment according to scientific research. Individuals who have healthy blood pressure levels are more likely to maintain their hearing abilities as they age, whereas individuals who have high blood pressure are more prone to experiencing hearing loss that can worsen over time.
Can ear pain signify high blood pressure?
Although high blood pressure can lead to considerable blood vessel damage, it frequently does not exhibit noticeable warning signs. It is often called the “silent killer” because of this. A prevalent myth is that sensations like “hot ears” or ear pressure suggest high blood pressure. Actually, these symptoms are more likely due to hormonal changes, stress, or emotional responses.
Certain individuals who have high blood pressure might experience an exacerbation of tinnitus symptoms, characterized by a persistent ringing or buzzing sensation in the ears. If you have ringing in your ears or detect any changes in your hearing, it’s important to make an appointment with a specialist who can carry out a detailed examination to identify the cause.
Controlling blood pressure and safeguarding your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can often be controlled through lifestyle changes and medical treatment. Reducing your blood pressure may even help maintain your hearing or prevent further deterioration.
Tips for reducing blood pressure
Managing blood pressure is crucial, but it’s equally vital to take preventive measures to safeguard your hearing health.
Safeguarding your hearing: vital steps
Along with controlling your blood pressure, the following habits can help you protect your hearing:
Worried about the possible risks to your hearing and cardiovascular health? Be proactiove.
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension and are experiencing signs of hearing difficulty– such as frequently asking others to repeat themselves, struggling with conversations in noisy places, or turning up the volume on devices– it’s time to make an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your hearing health matters. Don’t wait– early treatment can make a significant difference.
Contact us today to take the first step toward better hearing.