When most individuals think of the risks linked to high blood pressure– also known as hypertension– they often 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 loss, especially as you grow older?
Presbycusis, also called age-related hearing loss, generally starts to become noticeable in people aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It might progress gradually and without obvious symptoms, but the damage it causes is often permanent. Age-related hearing loss often arises from extended exposure to sound, leading to slow deterioration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. One considerable but frequently overlooked contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can damage the delicate 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. When this pressure is persistently too high, it puts excessive strain on your blood vessels. Prolonged exposure to this condition can result in arterial degeneration, causing the blood vessels to become stiff, constricted, or compromised, which in turn elevates the risk of developing severe health issues, including impaired hearing.
Your blood pressure reading is made up of two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) measures the pressure during heartbeats.
- The diastolic pressure, indicated by the bottom number, assesses the pressure during the heart’s resting phase.
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
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 140+/ 90+ mm Hg
- Severe High Blood Pressure: Exceeding 180/120 mm Hg (immediate medical attention necessary)
- 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 an excellent place to begin.
- Strive to engage in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes each week to maintain regular exercise.
- Decrease sodium intake: Reduce processed and fast foods, which are typically high in sodium.
- Stick to medication instructions: If recommended, consistently follow the guidelines for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your physician.
- Minimize stress: Incorporate relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your day-to-day routine.
- To prevent harm from loud noises, make sure to limit the time you spend around them. Don’t forget to use ear protection whenever you are at a concert, working with noisy machinery, or in loud settings.
- Consider using protective gear for your ears, including earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to lower the risks of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
- Regular check-ups with a hearing specialist can dramatically improve the effectiveness of treatment and total ear health by recognizing any potential issues early on.
The consequences of high blood pressure on hearing health
A fragile web of miniature blood vessels resides within the ears, providing the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it requires to work effectively. When hypertension compromises these vessels, the ear structures– particularly the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells known as stereocilia– can become damaged.
These stereocilia are in charge of translating sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can interpret. Regrettably, they do not regenerate once damaged. As a result, hearing loss from vascular damage triggered by high blood pressure is usually permanent.
Scientific studies reveal a powerful correlation between elevated blood pressure and the extent of hearing loss. People who have healthy blood pressure levels are more likely to maintain their hearing abilities as they get older, whereas individuals who have high blood pressure are more prone to experiencing hearing loss that can intensify over time.
Is ear soreness 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 known as the “silent killer” because of this. Many individuals falsly think that feelings such as 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 who have high blood pressure might experience a worsening of tinnitus symptoms, identified by a relentless ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. If you have ringing in your ears or detect any shifts in your hearing, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with a specialist who can carry out a thorough examination to determine the cause.
How to regulate blood pressure and safeguard your hearing
Blood pressure can frequently be controlled by making alterations to one’s lifestyle and receiving medical care. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the added advantage of safeguarding your hearing or halting its decline.
Strategies for decreasing hypertension naturally
While managing hypertension is essential, it’s also important to take proactive measures to safeguard your ears.
Protecting your hearing: vital steps
In addition to managing your blood pressure, the following habits can help you safeguard your hearing:
Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Be proactiove.
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and are experiencing signs of hearing difficulty– such as frequently asking others to repeat themselves, struggling to hear conversations in noisy places, or turning up the volume on devices– it’s time to make an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your auditory well-being is important. Act promptly as early action can have a significant impact.
Reach out to us now to begin the journey to better hearing