Many people normally think of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease as the primary health concerns related to high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Were you aware that not managing high blood pressure could also heighten the probability of experiencing hearing impairment, particularly as you grow older?
Presbycusis, also known as age-related hearing loss, normally starts to become noticeable in people aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It develops 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 sound, leading to gradual degeneration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. One substantial but frequently overlooked contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can harm the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.
What is blood pressure and why should you pay attention to?
Blood pressure is a measure of the power of blood flow in your arteries. Consistently high blood pressure can cause stress to your blood vessels. With time, this can cause the vessels to condense, narrow, or become damaged, increasing your risk for serious health issues– including hearing loss.
Your blood pressure reading is made up of two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) measures the pressure during heartbeats.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) gauges pressure between beats.
Categories of blood pressure
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
- Slightly High: Blood Pressure Ranges from 120-129 over Less Than 80
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg
- Severe Hypertension: Blood Pressure Over 140/90 mm Hg
- Hypertensive Crisis: Over 180/120 mm Hg (emergency care required)
- Embrace 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.
- Try to take part in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes every week to maintain regular exercise.
- Reduce sodium intake: Reduce processed and fast foods, which are typically high in sodium.
- Stick to medication instructions: If advised, consistently follow the guidelines for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your physician.
- Decrease stress: Make time for calming activities including mindfulness exercises, gentle stretches, or silent reflection to help you unwind and find equilibrium in your daily life.
- Steer clear of prolonged exposure to loud noise: Wear ear protection when going to concerts, working with loud equipment, or in loud settings.
- Think about utilizing protective gear for your ears, such as earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to lower the chances of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
- Schedule routine hearing tests: Early detection of hearing loss can result in better treatment outcomes and long-term auditory health.
How high blood pressure can affect your ears
A delicate web of miniature blood vessels resides within the ears, supplying the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it requires to work properly. When hypertension compromises these vessels, the ear structures– particularly the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells called stereocilia– can become damaged.
The stereocilia play a crucial role in converting sound waves into electrical signals that can be understood by the brain. Regrettably, they do not regenerate once damaged. As a result, hearing loss from vascular damage triggered by high blood pressure is typically permanent.
Scientific studies show a strong connection between high blood pressure and the severity of hearing loss. Individuals who have healthy blood pressure levels are more likely to preserve their hearing abilities as they get older, whereas those who have high blood pressure are more susceptible to experiencing hearing loss that can worsen over time.
Can ear pain signify high blood pressure?
Even though high blood pressure can cause substantial blood vessel damage, it often does not exhibit obvious warning signs. It is sometimes known as the “silent killer” as a result of this. Many people falsly think that sensations like warm ears or pressure in the ears are indications of high blood pressure. Actually, these symptoms are more likely due to hormonal changes, stress, or emotional responses.
Certain individuals with high blood pressure might experience a worsening of tinnitus symptoms, characterized by a persistent ringing or buzzing sensation in the ears. If you have persistent tinnitus or notice hearing changes, it’s important to consult a hearing care professional for a complete evaluation.
How to manage blood pressure and safeguard your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can typically be managed through lifestyle modifications and medical treatment. Reducing your blood pressure might even help maintain your hearing or stop further degeneration.
Tips for lowering blood pressure
Managing blood pressure is essential, but it’s equally vital to take preventive steps to safeguard your hearing health.
Protecting your hearing: vital steps
Along with controlling your blood pressure, the following practices can help you safeguard your hearing:
Worried about the possible threats to your hearing and cardiovascular health? Be proactiove.
If you are dealing with high blood pressure and are experiencing issues with your hearing, like having to ask people to repeat themselves frequently, finding it hard to hear in loud settings, or needing to boost the volume on your devices, it is important to make an appointment with a hearing professional.
Your hearing health is important. Act promptly as early action can have a significant impact.
Reach out to us right now to begin the journey to improved hearing
