Many people normally consider heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease as the primary health concerns related to high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Were you aware that not controlling high blood pressure could also increase the likelihood of experiencing hearing loss, particularly as you grow older?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, typically starts to show indicators in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It develops slowly with few noticeable signs, yet the damage it does can be lasting and permanent. In many cases, this kind of hearing loss derives from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. One considerable but frequently ignored contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can damage 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 power of blood flow in your arteries. When this pressure is consistently too high, it puts substantial strain on your blood vessels. Prolonged exposure to this condition can result in vascular deterioration, causing the blood vessels to become rigid, constricted, or jeopardized, which in turn elevates the risk of developing serious health complications, including impaired hearing.
Your blood pressure reading is made up of two numbers:
- The systolic reading, which is the top number, signifies the force of blood flow when the heart contracts.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) gauges pressure between beats.
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)
- Take advantage of a diet that promotes heart health by emphasizing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is an excellent place to start.
- Strive to engage in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes every week to maintain regular exercise.
- Minimize salt intake by limiting processed and fast food eating, as they frequently incorporate high levels of sodium.
- Stick to medication instructions: If recommended, consistently follow the instructions for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your physician.
- Reduce stress: Integrate relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your day-to-day routine.
- To prevent damage from loud noises, make sure to restrict the time you spend around them. Remember to use ear protection whenever you are at a concert, working with loud machinery, or in loud settings.
- Use hearing protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can reduce the danger of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Routine exams with a hearing specialist can significantly improve the success of treatment and overall ear health by catching any potential issues early on.
The consequences of high blood pressure on ear health
The ears are home to a complex network of tiny blood vessels that provide oxygen and nutrients to the auditory system. When hypertension compromises these vessels, the ear structures– especially the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells known as stereocilia– can become damaged.
The stereocilia play a crucial role in transforming sound waves into electrical signals that can be understood by the brain. Sadly, once they are damaged, they do not have the ability to restore themselves. Therefore, hearing loss resulting from vascular damage due to high blood pressure is typically permanent.
High blood pressure has been found to be closely connected to the level of hearing loss according to scientific research. Individuals with normal blood pressure tend to preserve better hearing over time, while individuals with hypertension are at an increased danger for both developing and worsening hearing loss.
Is ear soreness a symptom of high blood pressure?
In spite of the vascular harm it causes, high blood pressure rarely presents with noticeable symptoms. It is often referred to as the “silent killer” for this reason. Many individuals falsly think that feelings such as warm ears or pressure in the ears are indications of elevated blood pressure. In reality, these symptoms are more likely due to hormonal changes, stress, or emotional reactions.
However, some people with hypertension do report worsened symptoms of tinnitus– a ringing or buzzing in the ears. If you have chronic tinnitus or suspect hearing changes, it’s essential to consult a hearing care professional for a complete evaluation.
Managing blood pressure and safeguarding your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can typically be controlled through lifestyle changes and medical care. Lowering your blood pressure may even help preserve your hearing or stop further deterioration.
Tips for lowering blood pressure
Regulating blood pressure is crucial, but it’s equally vital to take preventive measures to protect 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? Take action
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension and are experiencing signs of hearing difficulty– including frequently asking others to repeat what they said, 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 quickly as early intervention can have a substantial impact.
Reach out to us now to start the journey to improved hearing