When the majority of people think of the risks linked to 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 elevate your danger for hearing loss, particularly as you age?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, generally begins to show indicators in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It may advance gradually and without noticeable symptoms, but the damage it creates is usually permanent. In many instances, this kind of hearing loss stems 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 delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
What is blood pressure and why should you care?
Blood pressure tracks the force of blood moving through your arteries. When this pressure is consistently too high, it puts excessive strain on your blood vessels. Prolonged exposure to this condition can lead to arterial deterioration, causing the blood vessels to become rigid, constricted, or compromised, which in turn elevates the risk of developing severe health issues, including impaired hearing.
Your blood pressure reading is composed of two numbers:
- 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 is characterized as blood pressure readings of 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg.
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 140+/ 90+ mm Hg
- Severe High Blood Pressure: Exceeding 180/120 mm Hg (immediate medical attention necessary)
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet: Focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Consider beginning 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.
- Reduce sodium intake: Limit processed and fast foods, which are often high in salt.
- Stick to medication instructions: If advised, consistently adhere to the guidelines for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your physician.
- Reduce stress: Integrate relaxation strategies like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your day-to-day regimen.
- Avoid extended exposure to loud noise: Use hearing protection when going to concerts, working with loud equipment, or in noisy settings.
- Use ear protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can reduce the danger of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Schedule regular hearing tests: Early detection of hearing loss can lead to better treatment results and long-term hearing health.
The consequences 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 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. Regrettably, they do not regenerate once damaged. As a result, hearing loss from vascular damage triggered by high blood pressure is often permanent.
High blood pressure has been discovered to be closely connected to the degree of hearing impairment according to scientific research. Individuals with normal blood pressure tend to preserve better hearing over time, while individuals with hypertension are at greater danger for both developing and worsening hearing loss.
Can ear pain be a sign of high blood pressure?
Even though high blood pressure can cause considerable blood vessel damage, it often does not manifest noticeable warning signs. It is often called the “silent killer” for this reason. Many people wrongly believe that sensations such as warm ears or pressure in the ears are indications of high blood pressure. In reality, these symptoms are more likely due to hormonal changes, stress, or emotional responses.
However, some people with hypertension do report intensified 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 important to schedule an appointment with a specialist who can carry out a detailed assessment to identify the cause.
Managing blood pressure and protecting your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can typically be managed through lifestyle changes and medical treatment. Decreasing your blood pressure could also have the added benefit of safeguarding your hearing or halting its decline.
Tips for reducing blood pressure
Managing blood pressure is essential, but it’s equally vital to take preventive steps to safeguard your hearing health.
Actions to protect your hearing health
In addition to controlling your blood pressure, the following practices can help you protect your hearing:
Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Take action
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and are experiencing indications of hearing problems– such as frequently asking others to repeat themselves, struggling with conversations in loud places, 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 substantial impact.
Reach out to us now to begin the journey to improved hearing