When most individuals think of the dangers linked to high blood pressure– also called hypertension– they tend to focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. But did you know that unmanaged hypertension can also elevate your danger for hearing loss, especially as you age?
Presbycusis, also known as age-related hearing loss, generally starts to become noticeable in people aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It might advance gradually and without obvious symptoms, but the damage it creates is usually permanent. In many cases, this kind of hearing loss derives from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. One considerable but often ignored 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 care?
Blood pressure measures the force of blood moving through your arteries. Consistently high blood pressure can cause strain to your blood vessels. Prolonged exposure to this condition can result in vascular degeneration, causing the blood vessels to become stiff, constricted, or jeopardized, which in turn raises the danger of developing severe health problems, including impaired hearing.
Your blood pressure reading is composed of two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) measures the pressure during heartbeats.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) measures pressure between beats.
Blood pressure categories
- Healthy Blood Pressure: Below 120/80 mm Hg
- Elevated: 120-129/<80 mm Hg
- 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)
- Embrace a diet that promotes heart health by focusing on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is an excellent place to start.
- Get regular exercise: Attempt to get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
- Cut down on salt intake by limiting processed and fast food eating, as they usually contain high levels of sodium.
- Adhere to medication instructions: If advised, consistently follow the instructions for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your doctor.
- Minimize stress: Integrate relaxation strategies like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your day-to-day regimen.
- Steer clear of prolonged exposure to loud noise: Use ear protection when going to concerts, working with noisy equipment, or in loud environments.
- Think about using protective gear for your ears, including earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to reduce the chances of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
- Schedule regular hearing exams: Early detection of hearing loss can lead to better treatment results and long-term hearing health.
The impact of high blood pressure on ear health
The ears are home to an intricate network of little blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the auditory system. When high blood pressure affects these vessels, the structures in the ear, particularly the cochlea and small sensory hair cells referred to as stereocilia, might sustain harm.
The stereocilia play a critical role in transforming sound waves into electrical impulses that can be understood by the brain. Regrettably, once they are damaged, they do not have the ability to restore themselves. Therefore, hearing impairment resulting from vascular damage due to high blood pressure is frequently permanent.
Scientific studies show a powerful connection between elevated blood pressure and the extent of hearing loss. Individuals with healthy blood pressure tend to maintain better hearing over time, while those with high blood pressure are at an increased danger for both developing and worsening hearing impairment.
Can ear pain signify high blood pressure?
In spite of the vascular damage it causes, high blood pressure rarely presents with noticeable symptoms. It is sometimes referred to as the “silent killer” as a result of this. Many individuals falsly believe that sensations like warm ears or pressure in the ears are signs of high blood pressure. It’s probable that these symptoms are actually the result of fluctuations in hormone levels, high levels of stress, or intense emotional responses.
However, some people with hypertension do experience worsened symptoms of tinnitus– a ringing or buzzing in the ears. If you have persistent tinnitus or notice hearing changes, it’s important to talk to a hearing care professional for a complete assessment.
How to manage blood pressure and protect your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can typically be managed through lifestyle changes and medical treatment. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the added advantage of protecting your hearing or halting its decline.
Tips for reducing blood pressure
While treating hypertension is important, it’s also important to take practical measures to safeguard your ears.
Safeguarding your hearing: essential measures
Besides managing your blood pressure, these behaviors can also aid in safeguarding your hearing:
Worried about the possible risks to your hearing and cardiovascular health? Take action
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and are experiencing signs of hearing problems– including frequently asking people to repeat themselves, struggling to hear conversations in noisy 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 quickly as early action can have a substantial impact.
Reach out to us right now to begin the journey to improved hearing
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The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive a personalized free hearing test and hearing loss consultation, call today to set up an appointment.
