Many people typically think of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease as the main health concerns associated with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Were you aware that not managing high blood pressure could also heighten the probability of experiencing hearing impairment, especially as you grow older?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, usually begins to show indicators in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It may progress gradually and without noticeable symptoms, but the damage it causes is often permanent. Age-related hearing loss often results from extended exposure to noise, leading to slow deterioration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. One significant but frequently ignored contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can harm the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
What is blood pressure and why should you pay attention to?
Blood pressure measures the force of blood moving through your arteries. Consistently high blood pressure can cause strain to your blood vessels. Prolonged exposure to this condition can lead to arterial deterioration, causing the blood vessels to become rigid, constricted, or jeopardized, which in turn raises the danger of developing serious health problems, including impaired hearing.
Your blood pressure reading is composed of two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) measures the pressure during heartbeats.
- The diastolic pressure, shown by the bottom number, assesses the pressure during the heart’s resting phase.
Blood pressure categories
- Healthy Blood Pressure: Below 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
- Severe High Blood Pressure: Exceeding 180/120 mm Hg (immediate medical attention necessary)
- Take advantage of a diet that supports heart health by focusing on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. Consider starting with the DASH or Mediterranean diet for a healthy foundation.
- Try to take part in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes every week to maintain regular exercise.
- Minimize salt consumption by limiting processed and fast food eating, as they frequently incorporate high levels of salt.
- Comply with medication instructions: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your doctor.
- Reduce anxiety: Make time for relaxing activities such as mindfulness exercises, gentle stretches, or quiet reflection to help you unwind and find balance in your daily life.
- Steer clear of extended exposure to loud noise: Use hearing protection when going to concerts, working with noisy equipment, or in loud settings.
- Think about utilizing protective gear for your ears, such as earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to lower the risks of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
- Regular check-ups with a hearing specialist can considerably improve the effectiveness of treatment and total ear health by recognizing any potential issues early on.
The impact of high blood pressure on hearing health
A delicate web of miniature blood vessels exists within the ears, supplying the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function effectively. When high blood pressure affects these vessels, the structures in the ear, particularly the cochlea and small sensory hair cells called stereocilia, may suffer harm.
The stereocilia play a crucial role in transforming sound waves into electrical impulses that can be understood by the brain. Unfortunately, they do not regrow once damaged. Because of this, hearing loss from vascular damage triggered by high blood pressure is usually irreversible.
High blood pressure has been found to be closely connected to the level of hearing impairment according to scientific research. Individuals who have healthy blood pressure levels are more likely to maintain their hearing abilities as they get older, whereas individuals who have high blood pressure are more susceptible to experiencing hearing loss that can worsen over time.
Is ear discomfort a symptom of high blood pressure?
Although high blood pressure can cause substantial blood vessel damage, it frequently does not exhibit 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 probable that these symptoms are actually the result of variations in hormone levels, high levels of stress, or strong 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 notice hearing changes, it’s important to talk to a hearing care professional for a comprehensive assessment.
How to manage blood pressure and protect your hearing
Blood pressure can frequently be controlled by making changes to one’s lifestyle and getting medical care. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the added advantage of safeguarding your hearing or halting its decline.
Strategies for reducing hypertension naturally
While treating hypertension is essential, it’s also important to take practical measures to safeguard your ears.
Steps to protect your hearing health
Besides managing your blood pressure, these behaviors can also aid in safeguarding your hearing:
Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Take action
If you have high blood pressure and are noticing issues with your hearing, like having to ask people to repeat themselves frequently, finding it difficult to hear in loud environments, or needing to increase the volume on your devices, it is important to make an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your hearing health matters. Don’t wait– early intervention can make a significant difference.
Contact us right away to take the first step toward better hearing.