When most individuals think of the risks associated with high blood pressure– also called hypertension– they tend to focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. Were you aware that not controlling 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, generally begins to become noticeable in individuals aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It may progress gradually and without noticeable symptoms, but the damage it creates is usually permanent. Age-related hearing loss frequently results from extended exposure to noise, resulting in slow deterioration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. An important but frequently disregarded factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to damage the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
Why is it important to understand blood pressure?
Blood pressure tracks the force of blood pushing through your arteries. Consistently high blood pressure can cause stress to your blood vessels. Prolonged exposure to this condition can lead to vascular degeneration, causing the blood vessels to become rigid, constricted, or jeopardized, which in turn elevates the risk of developing severe health complications, including impaired hearing.
Understanding blood pressure: analyzing two numerical components:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) determines the pressure during heartbeats.
- The diastolic pressure, shown by the bottom number, assesses the pressure during the heart’s resting phase.
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.
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 140+/ 90+ mm Hg
- Hypertensive Crisis: Over 180/120 mm Hg (emergency care required)
- Embrace a diet that supports heart health by focusing on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is a great place to begin.
- Strive to take part in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes every week to maintain regular exercise.
- Reduce salt intake: Reduce processed and fast foods, which are typically high in salt.
- Comply with medication guidelines: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your doctor.
- Reduce stress: Incorporate relaxation strategies like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your daily routine.
- To prevent damage from loud noises, make sure to restrict the time you spend around them. Remember to use ear protection whenever you are at a concert, working with loud machinery, or in loud settings.
- Use hearing protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can reduce the danger of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Schedule regular hearing exams: Early detection of hearing loss can lead to better treatment outcomes 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 needs to work properly. When hypertension jeopardize these vessels, the ear structures– especially the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells called stereocilia– can become damaged.
These stereocilia are in charge of converting sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can interpret. Sadly, once they are harmed, they do not have the ability to heal themselves. Therefore, hearing impairment resulting from vascular damage as a result of high blood pressure is typically irreversible.
Scientific studies reveal a strong connection between high blood pressure and the severity of hearing loss. People with normal blood pressure tend to maintain better hearing over time, while those with hypertension are at greater danger for both developing and exacerbating hearing impairment.
Can ear pain be a sign of high blood pressure?
In spite of the vascular damage it causes, high blood pressure rarely presents with noticeable symptoms. It is often called the “silent killer” for this reason. A common myth is that sensations like “hot ears” or ear pressure indicate high blood pressure. In reality, 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 detect any shifts in your hearing, it’s important to make an appointment with a specialist who can conduct a detailed assessment to determine the cause.
Controlling blood pressure and safeguarding your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can often be controlled through lifestyle changes and medical care. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the added advantage of safeguarding your hearing or halting its decline.
Tips for lowering blood pressure
Managing blood pressure is crucial, but it’s equally vital to take preventive measures to protect your hearing health.
Actions to safeguard your hearing health
In addition to controlling your blood pressure, the following habits can help you protect your hearing:
Worried about the potential risks to your hearing and cardiovascular health? Take action
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension and are experiencing signs of hearing problems– such as frequently asking people to repeat themselves, struggling to hear conversations in loud places, or turning up the volume on devices– it’s time to make an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your hearing health matters. Don’t wait– early intervention can make a considerable difference.
Contact us right away to take the first step toward better hearing.
