When the majority of individuals think of the risks linked to high blood pressure– also called hypertension– they often focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. Were you aware that not controlling high blood pressure could also heighten the probability of experiencing hearing loss, especially as you grow older?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, usually begins to show indicators in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It progresses slowly with few noticeable symptoms, yet the harm it inflicts can be lasting and permanent. Age-related hearing loss frequently arises from extended exposure to noise, leading to slow degeneration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. An essential but often ignored factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to destroy the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.
What is blood pressure and why should you care?
Blood pressure tracks the force of blood pushing through your arteries. Consistently high blood pressure can cause stress to 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.
Comprehending blood pressure: breaking down two numerical components:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) determines the pressure during heartbeats.
- The diastolic pressure, indicated by the bottom number, assesses the pressure during the heart’s resting phase.
Categories of blood pressure
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
- Elevated: 120-129/<80 mm Hg
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 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. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is an excellent place to begin.
- Try to engage in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes each week to maintain regular exercise.
- Reduce salt intake: Limit processed and fast foods, which are often high in salt.
- Comply with medication instructions: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your physician.
- Decrease anxiety: Make time for calming activities such as mindfulness exercises, gentle stretches, or quiet 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 loud equipment, or in loud environments.
- Use hearing protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can minimize the danger of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Schedule routine hearing exams: Early detection of hearing loss can lead to better treatment results and long-term hearing health.
The consequences of high blood pressure on hearing health
A delicate web of miniature blood vessels exists within the ears, providing the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function properly. When high blood pressure affects these vessels, the structures in the ear, especially the cochlea and small sensory hair cells called stereocilia, might sustain damage.
The stereocilia play a critical role in transforming sound waves into electrical signals 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 as a result of high blood pressure is typically irreversible.
Scientific studies show a powerful connection between elevated blood pressure and the severity of hearing loss. Individuals with normal blood pressure tend to maintain better hearing over time, while those with high blood pressure are at an increased danger for both developing and exacerbating hearing impairment.
Is ear discomfort a sign of high blood pressure?
Even though high blood pressure can lead to considerable blood vessel damage, it frequently does not manifest noticeable warning signs. It is frequently referred to as the “silent killer” because of this. A prevalent myth is that sensations like “hot ears” or ear pressure suggest high blood pressure. It’s probable that these symptoms are actually the outcome of variations in hormone levels, high levels of stress, or strong emotional reactions.
Certain people who have high blood pressure might experience a worsening of tinnitus symptoms, characterized by a persistent 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 schedule an appointment with a specialist who can carry out a detailed assessment to identify the cause.
How to manage blood pressure and protect your hearing
Blood pressure can frequently be regulated 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 important, it’s also crucial to take practical steps to protect your hearing.
Steps to safeguard your hearing health
Along with controlling your blood pressure, the following practices can help you protect your hearing:
Worried about hearing loss and blood pressure? Be proactiove.
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension and are experiencing indications of hearing difficulty– including frequently asking people to repeat themselves, struggling with conversations in noisy places, or turning up the volume on devices– it’s time to schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your hearing health is important. Act quickly as early action can have a significant impact.
Reach out to us now to start the journey to better hearing