When most individuals think of the risks linked to high blood pressure– also called hypertension– they tend to focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. Were you aware that not managing high blood pressure could also increase the probability of experiencing hearing loss, particularly as you grow older?
Presbycusis, also known as age-related hearing loss, normally starts to become evident in people aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It progresses slowly with few obvious symptoms, yet the damage it inflicts can be lasting and irreversible. Age-related hearing loss frequently results from prolonged exposure to noise, resulting in gradual deterioration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. One considerable but frequently ignored contributing factor is high blood pressure, which can damage the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
Why is it important to comprehend blood pressure?
Blood pressure tracks the force of blood moving through your arteries. When this pressure is persistently too high, it puts excessive strain on your blood vessels. Prolonged exposure to this condition can lead to vascular deterioration, causing the blood vessels to become rigid, constricted, or compromised, which in turn elevates the risk of developing severe health problems, including impaired hearing.
Comprehending blood pressure: breaking down two numerical components:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) determines the pressure during heartbeats.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) measures pressure between beats.
Categories of blood pressure
- Healthy Blood Pressure: Below 120/80 mm Hg
- Elevated: 120-129/<80 mm Hg
- Stage 1 hypertension is defined as blood pressure readings of 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg.
- Extreme Hypertension: Blood Pressure Above 140/90 mm Hg
- Severe High Blood Pressure: Exceeding 180/120 mm Hg (immediate medical attention necessary)
- Take advantage of 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 start.
- Try to take part in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes each week to maintain regular exercise.
- Minimize salt intake by limiting processed and fast food intake, as they usually incorporate high levels of salt.
- Comply with medication instructions: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your physician.
- Minimize stress: Incorporate relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your day-to-day routine.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to loud noise: Wear hearing protection when going to concerts, working with noisy equipment, or in loud environments.
- Consider using protective gear for your ears, including earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to reduce the chances of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
- Schedule routine hearing tests: Early detection of hearing loss can lead to better treatment outcomes and long-term hearing health.
The impact 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 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 translating sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can translate. Unfortunately, they do not regrow once damaged. Because of this, hearing loss from vascular damage triggered by high blood pressure is usually irreversible.
High blood pressure has been found to be closely linked to the level of hearing loss according to scientific research. People with normal blood pressure tend to preserve better hearing over time, while individuals with high blood pressure are at greater danger for both developing and worsening hearing loss.
Is ear soreness a symptom of high blood pressure?
Despite the vascular damage it causes, high blood pressure rarely presents with obvious symptoms. It is frequently known as the “silent killer” because of this. A prevalent myth is that sensations such as “hot ears” or ear pressure indicate high blood pressure. In reality, these symptoms are more likely due to hormonal changes, stress, or emotional responses.
However, some individuals with hypertension do report worsened symptoms of tinnitus– a ringing or buzzing in the ears. If you experience persistent tinnitus or notice hearing changes, it’s important to consult a hearing care professional for a comprehensive assessment.
How to regulate blood pressure and protect your hearing
Blood pressure can frequently be regulated by making changes to one’s lifestyle and receiving medical care. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the added advantage of protecting your hearing or stopping its decline.
Tips for reducing blood pressure
While managing hypertension is essential, it’s also crucial to take practical measures to safeguard your ears.
Protecting your hearing: vital measures
Besides managing your blood pressure, these actions can also aid in safeguarding your hearing:
Worried about the possible threats to your hearing and cardiovascular health? Take action
If you are dealing with high blood pressure and are experiencing problems with your hearing, like having to ask people to repeat themselves frequently, finding it hard to hear in loud environments, or needing to increase the volume on your devices, it is essential to make an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your hearing health matters. Don’t wait– early treatment can make a considerable difference.
Reach out to us today to take the first step toward better hearing.
