When the majority of individuals think of the dangers associated with high blood pressure– also called hypertension– they often focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. Were you aware that not managing high blood pressure could also increase the likelihood of experiencing hearing loss, particularly as you grow older?
Presbycusis, also known as age-related hearing loss, generally starts to become evident in individuals aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It progresses slowly with few obvious symptoms, yet the damage it does can be lasting and irreversible. In many instances, this kind of hearing loss derives from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. One substantial but often overlooked contributing factor is high blood pressure, which can harm the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
Why is it important to understand blood pressure?
Blood pressure measures the force of blood moving through your arteries. Consistently high blood pressure can cause stress to your blood vessels. Prolonged exposure to this condition can lead to arterial deterioration, causing the blood vessels to become stiff, constricted, or jeopardized, which in turn elevates the risk of developing severe health problems, including impaired hearing.
Comprehending blood pressure: analyzing two numerical components:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) measures the pressure during heartbeats.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) measures 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 is defined as blood pressure readings of 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg.
- Severe Hypertension: Blood Pressure Over 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. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is a great place to start.
- Get routine exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exersize every week.
- Decrease salt intake: Reduce processed and fast foods, which are often high in salt.
- Comply with medication guidelines: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your doctor.
- Minimize stress: Incorporate relaxation strategies like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your daily regimen.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to loud noise: Wear hearing protection when attending concerts, working with loud equipment, or in noisy settings.
- Consider using protective gear for your ears, such as earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to reduce the risks of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
- Schedule regular hearing tests: Early detection of hearing loss can result in better treatment results and long-term auditory health.
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 requires to work properly. When high blood pressure impacts these vessels, the structures in the ear, especially the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells referred to as stereocilia, may suffer harm.
These stereocilia are responsible for converting sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can translate. 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 frequently permanent.
Scientific studies reveal a powerful correlation between elevated blood pressure and the extent of hearing loss. People with normal blood pressure tend to preserve better hearing over time, while individuals with high blood pressure are at an increased risk for both developing and exacerbating hearing impairment.
Is ear discomfort a symptom of high blood pressure?
Despite the vascular harm it causes, high blood pressure rarely appears with obvious symptoms. It is sometimes referred to as the “silent killer” because of this. Many individuals falsly think that sensations like warm ears or pressure in the ears are indications of elevated blood pressure. Actually, these symptoms are more likely caused by hormonal changes, stress, or emotional responses.
Certain people with high blood pressure may experience a worsening of tinnitus symptoms, identified by a persistent ringing or buzzing sensation in the ears. If you experience persistent tinnitus or notice hearing changes, it’s essential to consult a hearing care professional for a comprehensive evaluation.
Controlling blood pressure and safeguarding your hearing
Blood pressure can usually be controlled by making alterations to one’s lifestyle and receiving medical care. Lowering your blood pressure might even help preserve your hearing or stop further deterioration.
Strategies for decreasing hypertension naturally
While managing hypertension is essential, it’s also important to take practical measures to safeguard your ears.
Actions to protect your hearing health
Besides regulating your blood pressure, these behaviors can also aid in safeguarding your hearing:
Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Be proactiove.
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and are experiencing indications of hearing problems– including frequently asking people to repeat themselves, struggling with conversations in noisy locations, or cranking up the volume on devices– it’s time to make an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your hearing health is important. Act quickly as early intervention can have a considerable impact.
Reach out to us right now to start the journey to better hearing