When the majority of individuals think of the risks associated with high blood pressure– also known as hypertension– they often focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. But did you realize that unmanaged hypertension can also increase your risk for hearing loss, especially as you age?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, generally starts to show indicators in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It progresses slowly with few noticeable symptoms, yet the damage it does can be lasting and permanent. In many instances, this kind of hearing loss derives from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. An important but often ignored factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to damage the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.
Why is it important to understand blood pressure?
Blood pressure is a measure of the power of blood flow in your arteries. Consistently high blood pressure can cause strain to your blood vessels. Extended exposure to this condition can lead to vascular deterioration, causing the blood vessels to become stiff, constricted, or jeopardized, which in turn raises the danger of developing serious health problems, including impaired hearing.
Your blood pressure reading is made up of two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) determines the pressure during heartbeats.
- 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 diet that promotes heart health by emphasizing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. Consider starting with the DASH or Mediterranean diet for a healthy foundation.
- Get regular exercise: Attempt to get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
- Minimize salt consumption by limiting processed and fast food eating, as they frequently contain high levels of salt.
- Stick to medication instructions: If recommended, consistently adhere to the guidelines for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your physician.
- Minimize stress: Incorporate relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your day-to-day routine.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to loud noise: Use ear protection when going to concerts, working with noisy equipment, or in loud environments.
- Use ear 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.
The impact of high blood pressure on ear health
A fragile web of miniature blood vessels exists within the ears, providing the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function properly. When high blood pressure impacts these vessels, the structures in the ear, particularly the cochlea and small sensory hair cells called stereocilia, might suffer damage.
The stereocilia play a crucial role in converting sound waves into electrical impulses that can be understood by the brain. Sadly, once they are harmed, they do not have the ability to heal themselves. Therefore, hearing loss resulting from vascular damage due to high blood pressure is frequently permanent.
High blood pressure has been found to be closely linked to the degree of hearing impairment 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 prone to experiencing hearing loss that can worsen over time.
Can ear pain be a sign of high blood pressure?
Even though high blood pressure can lead to substantial blood vessel damage, it frequently does not manifest noticeable warning signs. It is commonly called the “silent killer” for this reason. Many individuals falsly think that feelings like warm ears or pressure in the ears are signs of high blood pressure. It’s probable that these symptoms are really the outcome of fluctuations in hormone levels, high levels of stress, or strong emotional reactions.
However, some individuals with hypertension do report worsened symptoms of tinnitus– a ringing or buzzing in the ears. If you have ringing in your ears or notice any changes in your hearing, it’s crucial to make an appointment with a specialist who can conduct a thorough assessment to determine the cause.
How to regulate blood pressure and protect your hearing
Blood pressure can frequently be regulated by making changes to one’s lifestyle and getting medical care. Decreasing your blood pressure could also have the added benefit of protecting your hearing or halting its decline.
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 steps
Besides regulating your blood pressure, these behaviors can also aid in safeguarding your hearing:
Worried about the possible risks to your hearing and cardiovascular health? Be proactiove.
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension and are experiencing signs of hearing difficulty– including regularly asking others to repeat themselves, struggling with conversations in loud locations, or cranking up the volume on devices– it’s time to make an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your auditory well-being is important. Act promptly as early intervention can have a significant impact.
Reach out to us now to begin the journey to improved hearing