When most individuals 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 increase your risk for hearing loss, particularly as you age?
Presbycusis, also called age-related hearing loss, normally starts to become evident 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 permanent. Age-related hearing loss frequently results from prolonged exposure to sound, resulting in slow deterioration of the ear’s fragile mechanisms over time. One considerable but frequently overlooked contributing factor is high blood pressure, which can harm the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
What is blood pressure and why should you pay attention to?
Blood pressure is a measure of the strength of blood flow in your arteries. When this pressure is consistently too high, it puts substantial strain on your blood vessels. Extended exposure to this condition can result in arterial degeneration, 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:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) determines the pressure during heartbeats.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) measures pressure between beats.
Categories of blood pressure
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
- Slightly High: Blood Pressure Ranges from 120-129 over Less Than 80
- Stage 1 hypertension is defined 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 starting with the DASH or Mediterranean diet for a healthy basis.
- Try to take part in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes every week to maintain regular exercise.
- Minimize salt consumption by restricting processed and fast food eating, as they usually contain high levels of sodium.
- Stick to medication instructions: If advised, consistently follow the instructions 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 balance in your daily life.
- Steer clear of prolonged exposure to loud noise: Use hearing protection when going to concerts, working with noisy equipment, or in noisy settings.
- Consider using protective gear for your ears, such as earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to lower the chances of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
- Routine check-ups with a hearing specialist can dramatically improve the effectiveness of treatment and total ear health by recognizing any potential issues early on.
How high blood pressure can affect your ears
A delicate web of miniature blood vessels exists within the ears, supplying the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function effectively. When hypertension jeopardize these vessels, the ear structures– particularly the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells known as stereocilia– can become damaged.
The stereocilia play a crucial role in converting sound waves into electrical signals that can be understood by the brain. Sadly, once they are harmed, they do not have the ability to restore themselves. Therefore, hearing loss resulting from vascular damage as a result of high blood pressure is typically 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 maintain their hearing abilities as they age, whereas individuals who have high blood pressure are more susceptible to experiencing hearing loss that can intensify over time.
Can ear pain signify high blood pressure?
Even though high blood pressure can lead to considerable blood vessel damage, it frequently does not exhibit noticeable warning signs. It is frequently referred to as the “silent killer” as a result of this. Many individuals falsly think that feelings like warm ears or pressure in the ears are indications of high blood pressure. Actually, these symptoms are more likely caused by hormonal changes, stress, or emotional reactions.
Certain individuals with high blood pressure may experience a worsening of tinnitus symptoms, identified by a relentless ringing or buzzing sensation in the ears. If you have ringing in your ears or detect any shifts in your hearing, it’s crucial to make an appointment with a specialist who can conduct a detailed assessment to identify the cause.
How to manage blood pressure and protect your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can typically be managed through lifestyle modifications and medical care. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the added benefit of safeguarding your hearing or halting its decline.
Tips for lowering blood pressure
Managing blood pressure is essential, but it’s equally vital to take preventive measures to safeguard your hearing health.
Protecting your hearing: vital measures
In addition to managing your blood pressure, the following habits can help you protect your hearing:
Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Take action
If you have high blood pressure and are experiencing issues with your hearing, like having to ask people to repeat themselves often, finding it hard to hear in loud settings, or needing to boost the volume on your devices, it is essential to make 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.