When the majority of individuals think of the risks associated with high blood pressure– also called hypertension– they often focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. But did you know that unmanaged hypertension can also increase your risk for hearing loss, especially as you age?
Presbycusis, also known as age-related hearing loss, normally starts to become noticeable in individuals aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It may progress gradually and without obvious symptoms, but the damage it creates is usually permanent. In many cases, this kind of hearing loss stems from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. An important but often neglected factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to destroy the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
What is blood pressure and why should you care?
Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing through your arteries. When this pressure is persistently too high, it puts substantial strain on your blood vessels. With time, this can cause the vessels to condense, narrow, or become damaged, increasing your risk for severe health problems– including hearing loss.
Understanding blood pressure: breaking down two numerical components:
- The systolic reading, which is the higher number, indicates the force of blood flow when the heart contracts.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) gauges pressure between beats.
Blood pressure categories
- Healthy Blood Pressure: Below 120/80 mm Hg
- Elevated: 120-129/<80 mm Hg
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg
- Severe Hypertension: Blood Pressure Above 140/90 mm Hg
- Hypertensive Crisis: Over 180/120 mm Hg (emergency care required)
- Embrace a heart-healthy diet: Emphasize whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Consider beginning with the DASH or Mediterranean diet for a healthy basis.
- Get regular exercise: Attempt to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exersize every week.
- Reduce sodium intake: Reduce processed and fast foods, which are typically high in salt.
- Comply with medication guidelines: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your physician.
- Reduce stress: Make time for relaxing activities such as mindfulness exercises, mild stretches, or quiet reflection to help you unwind and find equilibrium in your daily life.
- To prevent damage from loud noises, be certain to limit the time you spend around them. Remember to use hearing protection whenever you are at a concert, working with loud machinery, or in noisy settings.
- Think about using protective gear for your ears, including earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to lower the chances of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
- Routine exams with a hearing specialist can significantly improve the success of treatment and overall ear health by recognizing any potential issues early on.
The impact of high blood pressure on ear health
The ears are home to a complex network of little blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the auditory system. When high blood pressure impacts these vessels, the structures in the ear, especially the cochlea and small sensory hair cells referred to as stereocilia, might suffer harm.
These stereocilia are in charge of translating sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can translate. Regrettably, they do not regenerate once damaged. As a result, hearing loss from vascular damage caused by high blood pressure is usually permanent.
High blood pressure has been found to be closely connected to the degree of hearing impairment according to scientific research. Individuals who have healthy blood pressure levels are more likely to preserve their hearing abilities as they get older, whereas individuals who have high blood pressure are more prone to experiencing hearing loss that can intensify over time.
Can ear pain be a sign of high blood pressure?
Although high blood pressure can cause significant blood vessel damage, it often does not manifest noticeable warning signs. It is often called the “silent killer” because of this. Many people wrongly believe that sensations such as warm ears or pressure in the ears are indications of elevated blood pressure. It’s probable that these symptoms are actually the result of fluctuations in hormone levels, high levels of stress, or intense emotional responses.
However, some people with hypertension do report intensified symptoms of tinnitus– a ringing or buzzing in the ears. If you have persistent tinnitus or suspect hearing changes, it’s important to consult a hearing care professional for a complete evaluation.
How to manage blood pressure and protect your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can often be managed through lifestyle modifications and medical treatment. Decreasing your blood pressure could also have the added advantage of protecting your hearing or stopping its decline.
Strategies for decreasing hypertension naturally
While treating hypertension is important, it’s also crucial to take practical measures to protect your hearing.
Actions to safeguard your hearing health
In addition to managing your blood pressure, the following practices can help you safeguard your hearing:
Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Be proactiove.
If you have high blood pressure and are experiencing issues with your hearing, like having to ask people to repeat themselves often, finding it difficult to hear in loud settings, or needing to increase the volume on your devices, it is essential to schedule an appointment with a hearing professional.
Your hearing health is important. Act promptly as early action can have a substantial impact.
Reach out to us now to begin the journey to improved hearing
