When the majority of people think of the dangers associated with high blood pressure– also called hypertension– they often focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. Were you aware that not managing high blood pressure could also increase the probability of experiencing hearing impairment, particularly as you grow older?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, generally starts to show indicators in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It may progress gradually and without obvious symptoms, but the damage it causes is often permanent. In many instances, this type of hearing loss stems from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. One significant but often overlooked contributing factor is high blood pressure, which can harm the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
Why is it important to comprehend blood pressure?
Blood pressure tracks the force of blood pushing through your arteries. When this pressure is consistently too high, it puts substantial strain on your blood vessels. With time, this can cause the vessels to stiffen, narrow, or become damaged, raising your risk for severe health issues– including hearing loss.
Your blood pressure reading is composed of two numbers:
- The systolic reading, which is the top number, indicates the force of blood flow when the heart contracts.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) measures pressure between beats.
Categories of blood pressure
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
- Elevated: 120-129/<80 mm Hg
- Stage 1 hypertension is defined as blood pressure readings of 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg.
- Extreme Hypertension: Blood Pressure Over 140/90 mm Hg
- Severe High Blood Pressure: Exceeding 180/120 mm Hg (immediate medical attention necessary)
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet: Emphasize whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Consider starting with the DASH or Mediterranean diet for a healthy foundation.
- Get regular exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
- Cut down on salt intake by limiting processed and fast food eating, as they frequently incorporate high levels of salt.
- Follow medication guidelines: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your doctor.
- Decrease stress: Make time for calming activities including mindfulness exercises, mild stretches, or silent reflection to help you unwind and find equilibrium in your day-to-day life.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to loud noise: Use hearing protection when attending concerts, working with noisy equipment, or in noisy environments.
- Use hearing protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can minimize the risk of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Schedule routine hearing exams: Early detection of hearing loss can result in better treatment outcomes and long-term hearing health.
The impact of high blood pressure on hearing health
A fragile web of miniature blood vessels exists within the ears, supplying the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it needs to work properly. When hypertension compromises these vessels, the ear structures– especially the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells called stereocilia– can become damaged.
These stereocilia are in charge of converting sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can translate. Regrettably, they do not regrow once damaged. As a result, hearing loss from vascular damage caused by high blood pressure is often permanent.
High blood pressure has been found to be closely linked to the degree of hearing loss according to scientific research. People who have regular blood pressure levels are more likely to preserve their hearing abilities as they age, whereas individuals who have high blood pressure are more prone to experiencing hearing loss that can intensify over time.
Is ear discomfort a symptom of high blood pressure?
Despite the vascular damage it causes, high blood pressure rarely appears with obvious symptoms. It is sometimes referred to as the “silent killer” because of this. A prevalent misconception 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 fluctuations in hormone levels, high levels of stress, or strong emotional reactions.
However, some individuals with hypertension do experience intensified symptoms of tinnitus– a ringing or buzzing in the ears. If you have chronic tinnitus or notice hearing changes, it’s important to consult a hearing care professional for a complete assessment.
How to regulate blood pressure and protect your hearing
Blood pressure can usually be regulated by making changes to one’s lifestyle and getting medical care. Lowering your blood pressure may even help preserve your hearing or stop further deterioration.
Strategies for reducing hypertension naturally
While managing hypertension is important, it’s also important to take practical steps to protect your hearing.
Steps to safeguard your hearing health
Besides regulating your blood pressure, these behaviors can also aid in protecting your hearing:
Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Take action
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension and are experiencing indications of hearing difficulty– such as regularly asking others to repeat themselves, struggling with conversations in loud places, or turning up the volume on devices– it’s time to make an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your hearing health is important. Act promptly as early intervention can have a substantial impact.
Reach out to us right now to start the journey to better hearing