When most people think of the risks linked to high blood pressure– also known as hypertension– they often focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. But did you realize that unmanaged hypertension can also increase your danger for hearing loss, especially as you get older?

Presbycusis, also known as age-related hearing loss, generally begins to become noticeable in people aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It may progress gradually and without noticeable symptoms, but the damage it causes is often permanent. Age-related hearing loss frequently results from prolonged exposure to sound, leading to slow degeneration of the ear’s fragile mechanisms over time. An essential but frequently neglected factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to destroy the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.

Why is it important to understand blood pressure?

Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing through your arteries. When this pressure is consistently too high, it puts substantial strain on your blood vessels. With time, this can cause the vessels to condense, narrow, or become damaged, increasing your risk for severe health problems– 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

• Healthy Blood Pressure: Below 120/80 mm Hg
• Slightly High: Blood Pressure Ranges from 120-129 over Less Than 80
• Stage 1 hypertension is characterized 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)

The impact of high blood pressure on ear health

The ears are home to a complex network of little 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.

The stereocilia play a crucial role in converting sound waves into electrical signals that can be understood by the brain. Sadly, 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 irreversible.

High blood pressure has been discovered to be closely connected to the degree of hearing impairment according to scientific research. Individuals with normal blood pressure tend to maintain better hearing over time, while those with hypertension are at an increased risk for both developing and exacerbating hearing impairment.

Is ear discomfort a sign of high blood pressure?

In spite of the vascular damage it causes, high blood pressure rarely presents with noticeable symptoms. It is frequently referred to as the “silent killer” because of this. Many individuals falsly believe that sensations such as warm ears or pressure in the ears are indications of high blood pressure. In reality, these symptoms are more likely due to hormonal changes, stress, or emotional reactions.

However, some individuals 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 crucial to make an appointment with a specialist who can conduct a detailed examination to determine the cause.

Controlling blood pressure and protecting your hearing

Blood pressure can usually be regulated by making alterations to one’s lifestyle and getting medical care. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the additional advantage of protecting your hearing or stopping its decline.

Strategies for reducing hypertension naturally

• Adopt a heart-healthy diet: Emphasize whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Consider beginning with the DASH or Mediterranean diet for a healthy foundation.
• Strive to take part in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes each week to maintain regular exercise.
• Reduce sodium intake: Reduce processed and fast foods, which are often high in sodium.
• Comply with medication guidelines: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your doctor.
• Reduce stress: Incorporate relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your day-to-day regimen.

Regulating blood pressure is crucial, but it’s equally vital to take preventive measures to safeguard your hearing health.

Actions to protect your hearing health

Besides regulating your blood pressure, these behaviors can also aid in protecting your hearing:

• To prevent damage from loud noises, make sure to limit the time you spend around them. Don’t forget to use hearing protection when you are at a concert, working with noisy machinery, or in loud settings.
• Consider utilizing protective gear for your ears, including earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to lower the chances of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
• Schedule routine hearing exams: Early detection of hearing loss can result in better treatment results and long-term auditory health.

Worried about the potential threats to your hearing and cardiovascular health? Take action

If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and are experiencing indications of hearing problems– including regularly 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 hearing health matters. Don’t wait– early treatment can make a substantial difference.
Reach out to us today to take the first step toward better hearing.

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.