Many people typically consider heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease as the main health concerns related to high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. But did you realize that unmanaged hypertension can also elevate your danger for hearing loss, particularly as you age?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, usually begins to show signs in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It progresses slowly with few noticeable signs, yet the damage it inflicts can be lasting and irreversible. Age-related hearing loss often arises from prolonged exposure to sound, leading to gradual degeneration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. An important but frequently ignored factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to damage the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
Why is it important to comprehend blood pressure?
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. Prolonged exposure to this condition can result in arterial degeneration, causing the blood vessels to become stiff, constricted, or jeopardized, which in turn raises the danger of developing serious health issues, including impaired hearing.
Your blood pressure reading is composed 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) 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 characterized 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 focusing on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is an excellent place to begin.
- Try to engage in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes each week to maintain regular exercise.
- Decrease salt intake: Limit processed and fast foods, which are typically high in sodium.
- Follow medication instructions: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your doctor.
- Reduce stress: Make time for calming activities such as mindfulness exercises, gentle stretches, or silent reflection to help you unwind and find balance in your day-to-day life.
- Avoid extended exposure to loud noise: Use ear protection when going to concerts, working with loud equipment, or in loud settings.
- Use hearing protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can minimize the danger of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Schedule routine hearing exams: Early detection of hearing loss can lead to better treatment outcomes and long-term hearing health.
How high blood pressure can impact your ears
A fragile web of miniature blood vessels resides within the ears, supplying the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it needs to work effectively. When hypertension jeopardize these vessels, the ear structures– especially 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 translate. Regrettably, once they are harmed, they do not have the ability to restore themselves. Therefore, hearing loss resulting from vascular damage as a result of high blood pressure is typically permanent.
High blood pressure has been found to be closely linked to the degree of hearing loss according to scientific research. People 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 susceptible to experiencing hearing loss that can intensify over time.
Can ear pain signify high blood pressure?
Even though high blood pressure can lead to considerable blood vessel damage, it often does not manifest obvious warning signs. It is often called the “silent killer” because of this. A common myth is that sensations such as “hot ears” or ear pressure indicate high blood pressure. It’s likely that these symptoms are actually the result of variations in hormone levels, high levels of stress, or strong emotional reactions.
Certain people who have high blood pressure might experience an exacerbation of tinnitus symptoms, identified by a persistent ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. If you experience persistent tinnitus or suspect hearing changes, it’s essential to talk to a hearing care professional for a complete assessment.
Controlling blood pressure and protecting your hearing
Blood pressure can frequently be regulated by making alterations to one’s lifestyle and getting medical care. Lowering your blood pressure may even help preserve your hearing or prevent further degeneration.
Tips for lowering blood pressure
While treating hypertension is important, it’s also crucial to take proactive steps to safeguard your ears.
Actions to safeguard your hearing health
Along with managing your blood pressure, the following practices can help you protect your hearing:
Worried about the potential threats to your hearing and cardiovascular health? Take action
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and are experiencing indications of hearing difficulty– such as frequently asking people to repeat themselves, struggling with conversations in noisy locations, or cranking 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 right now to begin the journey to improved hearing