Were you aware that your chance of developing age-related hearing loss can be increased if you have high blood pressure?
Age-related hearing loss usually begins to manifest in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. You most likely won’t even detect your progressing hearing loss even though it’s an irreversible condition. Years of noise damage is typically the cause. So how is hearing loss caused by hypertension? The blood vessels in your ears and your blood vessels in general can be damaged by high blood pressure.
Blood pressure and why it’s so significant
Blood pressure is a measure of how quickly blood runs through your circulatory system. High blood pressure means that this blood moves more quickly than normal. Damage to your blood vessels can happen over time as a result. These blood vessels that have been damaged lose their elasticity and often become blocked. A blockage can contribute to a stroke or other cardiovascular problems. Healthcare professionals tend to pay very close attention to a patient’s blood pressure for this reason.
So, what is regarded as high blood pressure?
Here are the basic ratings for high blood pressure:
- Normal: 120/8o
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139/80-89
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 140 or Higher/90 or higher
A hypertensive emergency occurs when your blood pressure is over 180/120. This type of event should be addressed immediately.
How is hearing loss caused by hypertension?
The blood vessels in your ear and your entire body can be damaged by hypertension. Usually, the nerves in your ear will also be compromised along with these blood vessels. Additionally, high blood pressure can negatively impact the stereocilia in your ear (the tiny hairs responsible for picking up vibrations). These stereocilia aren’t able to self-regeneration, so any damage they sustain is permanent.
So regardless of the particular cause, permanent hearing loss can be the consequence of any damage. According to some studies, the percentage of individuals who have hearing loss is higher when they have high blood pressure readings. Individuals who reported higher blood pressure were also more likely to have more severe hearing loss. The findings of the research make clear that keeping your blood pressure under control can help you avoid the effects of hearing loss.
What does high blood pressure make your ears feel like?
Usually, the symptoms of high blood pressure are barely detectable. So-called “hot ears” aren’t a sign of high blood pressure. What are hot ears? It’s a symptom in which your ears feel warm and get red. Hot ears are usually caused by changes in blood flow due to hormonal, emotional, and other issues not associated with blood pressure.
In some circumstances, high blood pressure can worsen tinnitus symptoms. But how can you tell if tinnitus is a result of high blood pressure? The only way to know for sure is to speak with your doctor. Tinnitus is generally not a symptom of high blood pressure. High blood pressure is sometimes referred to as “the silent killer” for a good reason.
Typically, it’s not until you have your vitals taken at your annual exam that high blood pressure is detected. This is one good reason to be certain that you go to your yearly appointments.
How can you lower your blood pressure?
Usually, there are many factors that contribute to high blood pressure. That’s why lowering blood pressure might call for a variety of approaches. In general, you should talk with your primary care doctor to lower your blood pressure. Here’s what that management could entail:
- Take medication as prescribed: Sometimes, no amount of diet and exercise can counter or effectively treat high blood pressure. In those instances, (and even in cases where lifestyle changes have helped), medication might be necessary to help you control your hypertension.
- Avoid sodium: Keep the sodium intake to a minimum. Find lower salt alternatives when possible (or stay away from processed foods when you can).
- Diet changes: Eating a Mediterranean diet can help you lower blood pressure. Eat more fruits and vegetables and avoid things like red meat.
- Get more exercise: Your blood pressure can be kept under control by getting regular exercise.
A treatment plan to address your blood pressure can be developed by your primary care doctor. Can hearing loss from high blood pressure be reversed? In some cases the answer is yes and in others not so much. There is some evidence to suggest that reducing your blood pressure can help revive your hearing, at least in part. But it’s also likely that at least some of the damage incurred will be irreversible.
Your hearing will have a better possibility of recovering if you address your blood pressure promptly.
Safeguarding your hearing
While lowering your blood pressure can certainly be good for your health (and your hearing), there are other ways you can safeguard your hearing. Here are several ways:
- Wear hearing protection: Earmuff, earplugs, and even noise canceling headphones can help you safeguard your hearing.
- Avoiding loud venues and events: Try to steer clear of overly loud noises where you can, as these noises can cause damage to your ears. If you absolutely need to be in a setting with overly loud noise, at least limit your exposure time.
- Talk to us: Having your hearing screened regularly can help you protect your hearing and identify any hearing loss early.
If you have high blood pressure and are noticing symptoms of hearing loss, make sure to book an appointment with us so we can help you treat your hearing loss and safeguard your hearing health.