When the majority of 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. But did you realize that unmanaged hypertension can also increase your danger for hearing loss, especially as you age?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, typically begins to show indicators in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It might advance gradually and without noticeable symptoms, but the damage it causes is often permanent. Age-related hearing loss often arises from prolonged exposure to sound, leading to gradual deterioration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. One substantial but often ignored contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can damage the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
What is blood pressure and why should you care?
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. Over time, this can cause the vessels to stiffen, narrow, or become damaged, increasing your risk for serious 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, indicated by the bottom number, assesses the pressure during the heart’s resting phase.
Categories of blood pressure
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
- Slightly High: Blood Pressure Ranges from 120-129 over Less Than 80
- Stage 1 hypertension is defined as blood pressure readings of 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 beginning with the DASH or Mediterranean diet for a healthy foundation.
- Get regular exercise: Attempt to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exersize every week.
- Minimize salt consumption by limiting processed and fast food intake, as they usually incorporate high levels of salt.
- Adhere to medication instructions: If advised, consistently follow the instructions for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your doctor.
- Reduce stress: Incorporate relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your day-to-day routine.
- To prevent harm from loud noises, be certain to limit the time you spend around them. Remember to use hearing protection when you are at a concert, working with noisy machinery, or in noisy settings.
- Think about using protective gear for your ears, including 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 improve the success of treatment and overall ear health by recognizing any potential issues early on.
The consequences of high blood pressure on ear health
A delicate web of miniature blood vessels exists within the ears, supplying the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it needs to work effectively. When high blood pressure affects these vessels, the structures in the ear, particularly the cochlea and small sensory hair cells referred to as stereocilia, may sustain harm.
These stereocilia are in charge of translating sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can interpret. Unfortunately, they do not regenerate once damaged. As a result, hearing loss from vascular damage caused by high blood pressure is usually irreversible.
High blood pressure has been found to be closely connected to the degree of hearing impairment according to scientific research. Individuals with healthy blood pressure tend to maintain better hearing over time, while those with hypertension are at an increased danger for both developing and worsening hearing impairment.
Can ear pain signify high blood pressure?
Although high blood pressure can lead to substantial blood vessel damage, it often does not manifest noticeable warning signs. It is often referred to as the “silent killer” because of this. A prevalent misconception is that sensations like “hot ears” or ear pressure indicate high blood pressure. It’s likely that these symptoms are actually the outcome of variations in hormone levels, high levels of stress, or strong emotional responses.
Certain people with high blood pressure may 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 notice any shifts in your hearing, it’s crucial to make an appointment with a specialist who can carry out a detailed assessment to identify the cause.
How to manage blood pressure and protect your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can typically be controlled through lifestyle changes and medical treatment. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the added advantage of safeguarding your hearing or halting its decline.
Tips for reducing blood pressure
Managing blood pressure is essential, but it’s equally vital to take preventive measures to protect your hearing health.
Protecting your hearing: vital steps
Along with managing your blood pressure, the following practices can help you protect your hearing:
Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Take action
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension and are experiencing indications of hearing problems– including frequently asking people to repeat themselves, struggling with conversations in noisy locations, or cranking up the volume on devices– it’s time to schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your auditory well-being is important. Act promptly as early action can have a significant impact.
Reach out to us now to start the journey to better hearing