When most people think of the risks linked to high blood pressure– also known as hypertension– they tend to 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?
Presbycusis, also known as age-related hearing loss, normally begins to become noticeable in people aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It might progress gradually and without noticeable symptoms, but the damage it creates is often permanent. In many cases, this kind of hearing loss stems from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. One substantial but frequently overlooked contributing factor is high 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 strength 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, increasing your risk for serious 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) gauges pressure between beats.
Blood pressure categories
- Normal: Less than 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
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 140+/ 90+ mm Hg
- Hypertensive Crisis: Over 180/120 mm Hg (emergency care required)
- Embrace a diet that promotes 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.
- Get routine exercise: Attempt to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exersize per week.
- Cut down on salt consumption by limiting processed and fast food intake, as they usually incorporate high levels of sodium.
- Stick to medication instructions: If advised, consistently follow the guidelines for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your physician.
- Reduce stress: Integrate relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your day-to-day regimen.
- To prevent harm from loud noises, be certain to limit the time you spend around them. Don’t forget to use ear protection whenever you are at a concert, working with noisy machinery, or in noisy settings.
- Use hearing protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can reduce the risk of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Regular exams with a hearing specialist can significantly enhance the effectiveness 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 tiny blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the auditory system. When hypertension jeopardize these vessels, the ear structures– especially 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 interpret. Unfortunately, they do not regenerate once damaged. Because of this, hearing loss from vascular damage triggered by high blood pressure is often irreversible.
Scientific studies reveal a powerful correlation between elevated blood pressure and the severity of hearing loss. People with healthy blood pressure tend to maintain better hearing over time, while individuals with hypertension are at greater risk for both developing and exacerbating hearing loss.
Can ear pain be a sign of high blood pressure?
Although high blood pressure can cause substantial blood vessel damage, it frequently does not exhibit obvious warning signs. It is frequently known as the “silent killer” as a result of this. Many people wrongly believe that feelings such as warm ears or pressure in the ears are indications of elevated blood pressure. Actually, these symptoms are more likely due to hormonal changes, stress, or emotional reactions.
However, some people with hypertension do report worsened 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 crucial to schedule an appointment with a specialist who can conduct a detailed assessment to identify the cause.
Managing blood pressure and protecting your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can often be managed through lifestyle changes and medical treatment. Reducing your blood pressure might even help preserve your hearing or stop further deterioration.
Strategies for reducing hypertension naturally
Regulating blood pressure is essential, but it’s equally vital to take preventive measures to protect your hearing health.
Actions to protect your hearing health
Besides regulating your blood pressure, these behaviors can also aid in protecting your hearing:
Worried about hearing loss and blood pressure? Be proactiove.
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 specialist.
Your auditory well-being is important. Act quickly as early intervention can have a substantial impact.
Reach out to us now to start the journey to improved hearing