Many individuals typically think of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease as the primary health concerns associated with high blood pressure, also called hypertension. But did you realize that unmanaged hypertension can also elevate your risk for hearing loss, particularly as you get older?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, usually starts to show indicators in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It may advance gradually and without noticeable symptoms, but the damage it causes is usually permanent. Age-related hearing loss frequently arises from prolonged exposure to noise, resulting in gradual deterioration of the ear’s fragile mechanisms over time. An important but frequently disregarded 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 stress to your blood vessels. Over time, this can cause the vessels to condense, narrow, or become damaged, increasing your risk for serious health problems– including hearing loss.
Comprehending blood pressure: analyzing 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) measures pressure between beats.
Blood pressure categories
- 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.
- Severe Hypertension: Blood Pressure Over 140/90 mm Hg
- Severe High Blood Pressure: Exceeding 180/120 mm Hg (immediate medical attention necessary)
- Take advantage of a diet that supports heart health by emphasizing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is an excellent place to start.
- Get regular exercise: Attempt to get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity every week.
- Reduce salt intake: Limit processed and fast foods, which are often high in sodium.
- Comply with medication instructions: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your physician.
- Minimize stress: Incorporate relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your day-to-day routine.
- Avoid extended exposure to loud noise: Use ear protection when attending concerts, working with noisy equipment, or in noisy settings.
- Use ear protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can reduce the danger of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Schedule regular hearing tests: Early detection of hearing loss can lead to better treatment results and long-term auditory health.
The impact of high blood pressure on hearing health
The ears are home to an intricate network of tiny blood vessels that provide oxygen and nutrients to the auditory system. When hypertension jeopardize these vessels, the ear structures– particularly the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells called stereocilia– can become damaged.
These stereocilia are responsible for translating sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can interpret. Unfortunately, they do not regenerate once damaged. Because of this, hearing loss from vascular damage triggered by high blood pressure is typically permanent.
High blood pressure has been discovered to be closely linked to the degree of hearing loss according to scientific research. Individuals with normal blood pressure tend to preserve better hearing over time, while those with high blood pressure are at greater danger for both developing and exacerbating hearing loss.
Is ear soreness a sign of high blood pressure?
In spite of the vascular harm it causes, high blood pressure rarely appears with obvious symptoms. It is commonly called the “silent killer” for this reason. A common myth is that sensations like “hot ears” or ear pressure suggest high blood pressure. It’s probable that these symptoms are really the outcome of variations in hormone levels, high levels of stress, or strong emotional responses.
However, some people with hypertension do report worsened symptoms of tinnitus– a ringing or buzzing in the ears. If you have ringing in your ears or detect any shifts in your hearing, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a specialist who can conduct a detailed examination to determine the cause.
Managing blood pressure and protecting your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can often be managed through lifestyle changes and medical treatment. Lowering your blood pressure might even help preserve your hearing or stop further deterioration.
Tips for lowering blood pressure
Managing blood pressure is essential, but it’s equally vital to take preventive steps to safeguard your hearing health.
Protecting your hearing: essential measures
Besides managing your blood pressure, these actions can also aid in safeguarding your hearing:
Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Be proactiove.
If you are dealing with high blood pressure and are experiencing problems with your hearing, like having to ask people to repeat themselves frequently, finding it difficult to hear in loud settings, or needing to increase the volume on your devices, it is essential to make an appointment with a hearing professional.
Your hearing health is important. Act promptly as early intervention can have a substantial impact.
Reach out to us now to start the journey to better hearing