When most people think of the risks associated with high blood pressure– also known as hypertension– they often focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. Were you aware that not managing high blood pressure could also heighten the probability of experiencing hearing loss, especially as you grow older?
Presbycusis, also known as age-related hearing loss, generally starts to become noticeable in individuals aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It progresses slowly with few obvious signs, yet the harm it does can be lasting and irreversible. Age-related hearing loss often results from extended exposure to noise, leading to gradual deterioration of the ear’s fragile mechanisms over time. An essential but frequently disregarded 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. When this pressure is consistently too high, it puts excessive strain on your blood vessels. Prolonged exposure to this condition can result in vascular degeneration, causing the blood vessels to become rigid, constricted, or compromised, which in turn raises the risk of developing serious health issues, including impaired hearing.
Comprehending 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.
- The diastolic pressure, shown by the bottom number, assesses the pressure during the heart’s resting phase.
Blood pressure categories
- Healthy Blood Pressure: Below 120/80 mm Hg
- Slightly High: Blood Pressure Ranges from 120-129 over Less Than 80
- 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)
- Take advantage of a diet that supports heart health by emphasizing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. Consider starting with the DASH or Mediterranean diet for a healthy basis.
- Try to engage in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes every week to maintain regular exercise.
- Cut down on salt intake by limiting processed and fast food eating, as they frequently contain high levels of sodium.
- Follow medication guidelines: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your physician.
- Decrease stress: Make time for relaxing activities such as 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: Wear ear protection when going to concerts, working with noisy equipment, or in loud environments.
- Consider using protective gear for your ears, including earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to lower the risks of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
- Schedule routine hearing exams: Early detection of hearing loss can result in better treatment outcomes and long-term auditory health.
How high blood pressure can affect your ears
A fragile web of miniature blood vessels exists within the ears, supplying the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it requires to function properly. When hypertension jeopardize these vessels, the ear structures– particularly 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 interpret. Regrettably, they do not regenerate once damaged. Because of this, hearing loss from vascular damage caused by high blood pressure is typically irreversible.
High blood pressure has been found to be closely linked to the level of hearing loss according to scientific research. People with healthy blood pressure tend to preserve better hearing over time, while those with high blood pressure are at greater danger for both developing and worsening hearing loss.
Is ear soreness a sign of high blood pressure?
Although high blood pressure can lead to significant blood vessel damage, it often does not manifest noticeable warning signs. It is frequently known as the “silent killer” as a result of this. A common misconception is that sensations such as “hot ears” or ear pressure indicate high blood pressure. Actually, these symptoms are more likely due to hormonal changes, stress, or emotional responses.
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 detect any changes in your hearing, it’s important to make an appointment with a specialist who can carry out a thorough examination to determine the cause.
How to manage blood pressure and safeguard your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can often be controlled through lifestyle changes and medical treatment. Reducing your blood pressure might even help maintain your hearing or prevent further deterioration.
Tips for lowering blood pressure
Managing blood pressure is essential, but it’s equally important to take preventive steps to protect your hearing health.
Protecting your hearing: essential measures
Besides managing your blood pressure, these actions can also aid in safeguarding 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 problems– such as regularly asking others to repeat themselves, struggling to hear conversations in loud 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 promptly as early intervention can have a substantial impact.
Reach out to us now to begin the journey to better hearing