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. But did you realize that unmanaged hypertension can also elevate your risk for hearing loss, particularly as you age?
Presbycusis, also known as age-related hearing loss, normally begins to become noticeable in people aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It might advance gradually and without noticeable symptoms, but the damage it causes is usually permanent. Age-related hearing loss often results from extended exposure to noise, resulting in slow degeneration of the ear’s fragile mechanisms over time. One considerable but often ignored contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can harm the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.
What is blood pressure and why should you care?
Blood pressure is a measure of the power of blood flow in your arteries. When this pressure is consistently too high, it puts substantial strain on your blood vessels. Over time, this can cause the vessels to condense, narrow, or become damaged, raising your risk for serious health problems– 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) gauges pressure between beats.
Categories of blood pressure
- 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)
- Embrace 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.
- Strive to engage in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes every week to maintain regular exercise.
- Cut down on salt consumption by restricting processed and fast food intake, as they usually contain high levels of sodium.
- Adhere to medication instructions: If advised, consistently adhere to the guidelines for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your doctor.
- Reduce stress: Make time for calming activities such as mindfulness exercises, gentle stretches, or silent reflection to help you unwind and find balance in your daily life.
- To prevent damage from loud noises, make sure to limit the time you spend around them. Don’t forget to use hearing protection when you are at a concert, working with loud machinery, or in loud 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.
- Regular check-ups with a hearing specialist can dramatically enhance 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 called stereocilia– can become damaged.
These stereocilia are in charge of translating sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can interpret. Sadly, once they are damaged, they do not have the ability to restore themselves. Therefore, hearing impairment resulting from vascular damage as a result of high blood pressure is typically irreversible.
High blood pressure has been discovered to be closely linked to the level of hearing impairment according to scientific research. Individuals who have healthy blood pressure levels are more likely to maintain their hearing abilities as they get older, whereas individuals who have high blood pressure are more susceptible to experiencing hearing loss that can intensify over time.
Is ear soreness a symptom of high blood pressure?
Although high blood pressure can cause significant blood vessel damage, it frequently does not exhibit noticeable warning signs. It is sometimes referred to as the “silent killer” as a result of this. A prevalent myth is that sensations like “hot ears” or ear pressure suggest high blood pressure. It’s likely that these symptoms are really the outcome of variations in hormone levels, high levels of stress, or intense emotional reactions.
However, some people with hypertension do experience worsened symptoms of tinnitus– a ringing or buzzing in the ears. If you experience persistent tinnitus or suspect hearing changes, it’s important to consult a hearing care professional for a complete assessment.
Controlling blood pressure and safeguarding your hearing
Blood pressure can frequently be regulated by making alterations to one’s lifestyle and receiving medical care. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the additional benefit of protecting your hearing or halting its decline.
Strategies for reducing hypertension naturally
Managing blood pressure is crucial, but it’s equally vital to take preventive steps to protect your hearing health.
Actions to safeguard your hearing health
Along with controlling your blood pressure, the following practices can help you safeguard your hearing:
Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Take action
If you have high blood pressure and are experiencing problems 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 important to schedule an appointment with a hearing professional.
Your hearing health matters. Don’t wait– early treatment can make a substantial difference.
Contact us right away to take the first step toward better hearing.
