When the majority of people think of the dangers linked to high blood pressure– also known as hypertension– they tend to 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?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, usually begins to show signs in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It might 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, resulting in slow degeneration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. An essential but often ignored factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to destroy the fragile 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. With time, this can cause the vessels to stiffen, narrow, or become damaged, raising your risk for serious health problems– including hearing loss.
Understanding blood pressure: breaking down two numerical components:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) measures the pressure during heartbeats.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) gauges pressure between beats.
Categories of blood pressure
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
- Elevated: 120-129/<80 mm Hg
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 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)
- Embrace a diet that supports heart health by focusing on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is a great place to start.
- Get routine exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exersize per week.
- Minimize salt consumption by restricting processed and fast food eating, as they frequently incorporate high levels of sodium.
- Adhere to medication instructions: If recommended, consistently follow the guidelines for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your doctor.
- Reduce anxiety: Make time for relaxing activities such as mindfulness exercises, gentle stretches, or silent reflection to help you unwind and find equilibrium in your day-to-day life.
- Avoid extended exposure to loud noise: Use ear protection when attending concerts, working with loud equipment, or in loud settings.
- Use ear protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can reduce the risk of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Routine exams with a hearing specialist can dramatically improve the success of treatment and total ear health by catching any potential issues early on.
The consequences of high blood pressure on hearing health
The ears are home to a complex network of little blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the auditory system. When hypertension compromises these vessels, the ear structures– particularly the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells known as stereocilia– can become damaged.
These stereocilia are responsible for converting sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can translate. Unfortunately, they do not regrow once damaged. Because of this, hearing loss from vascular damage triggered by high blood pressure is typically permanent.
Scientific studies reveal a powerful correlation between high blood pressure and the extent of hearing loss. Individuals who have regular blood pressure levels are more likely to maintain their hearing abilities as they age, whereas those who have high blood pressure are more prone to experiencing hearing loss that can intensify over time.
Is ear soreness a sign of high blood pressure?
Despite the vascular damage it causes, high blood pressure rarely presents with obvious symptoms. It is sometimes known as the “silent killer” as a result of this. A prevalent myth is that sensations such as “hot ears” or ear pressure suggest high blood pressure. Actually, these symptoms are more likely caused by hormonal changes, stress, or emotional responses.
Certain individuals with high blood pressure may experience an exacerbation of tinnitus symptoms, identified by a persistent ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. If you have ringing in your ears or notice any changes in your hearing, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with a specialist who can conduct a detailed assessment to identify the cause.
How to regulate blood pressure and protect your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can often be managed through lifestyle changes and medical care. Lowering your blood pressure might even help maintain your hearing or prevent further deterioration.
Tips for lowering blood pressure
While managing hypertension is important, it’s also important to take proactive steps to safeguard your hearing.
Steps to safeguard your hearing health
Along with managing your blood pressure, the following habits can help you safeguard your hearing:
Worried about the possible risks to your hearing and cardiovascular health? Be proactiove.
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and are experiencing signs of hearing difficulty– such as frequently asking people to repeat themselves, struggling with conversations in noisy places, or cranking up the volume on devices– it’s time to schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your hearing health is important. Act quickly as early intervention can have a considerable impact.
Reach out to us right now to begin the journey to better hearing
