Many people typically consider heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease as the main health concerns related to high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. But did you realize that unmanaged hypertension can also increase your risk for hearing loss, particularly as you get older?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, usually begins to show indicators in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It might advance gradually and without noticeable symptoms, but the damage it creates is usually permanent. In many cases, this type of hearing loss stems from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. An important but often ignored factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to damage the fragile 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 persistently too high, it puts substantial strain on your blood vessels. Prolonged exposure to this condition can lead to vascular deterioration, causing the blood vessels to become rigid, constricted, or jeopardized, which in turn raises the risk of developing severe health problems, including impaired hearing.
Understanding 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
- 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)
- Take advantage of a diet that supports heart health by focusing on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. Consider starting with the DASH or Mediterranean diet for a healthy foundation.
- Strive to engage in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes each week to maintain regular exercise.
- Reduce sodium intake: Limit processed and fast foods, which are typically high in sodium.
- Follow medication instructions: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your physician.
- Reduce stress: Incorporate relaxation strategies like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your day-to-day routine.
- To prevent damage from loud noises, be certain to restrict the time you spend around them. Remember to use ear protection when you are at a concert, working with noisy machinery, or in noisy settings.
- Consider using protective gear for your ears, including earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to reduce the risks of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
- Schedule regular hearing tests: Early detection of hearing loss can result in better treatment outcomes and long-term auditory health.
How high blood pressure can impact your ears
A fragile web of miniature blood vessels resides within the ears, supplying the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it requires to function effectively. When hypertension jeopardize these vessels, the ear structures– especially the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells known as stereocilia– can become damaged.
These stereocilia are in charge of converting sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can translate. Sadly, once they are harmed, they do not have the ability to restore themselves. Therefore, hearing impairment resulting from vascular damage as a result of high blood pressure is frequently permanent.
Scientific studies reveal a powerful connection between elevated blood pressure and the extent of hearing loss. People with normal blood pressure tend to preserve better hearing over time, while those with hypertension are at an increased danger for both developing and worsening hearing loss.
Can ear pain signify high blood pressure?
Although high blood pressure can lead to significant blood vessel damage, it often does not manifest noticeable warning signs. It is commonly called the “silent killer” because of this. Many people falsly think that feelings 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 reactions.
Certain individuals who have high blood pressure might experience an exacerbation of tinnitus symptoms, identified by a relentless ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. If you experience persistent tinnitus or suspect hearing changes, it’s important to talk to a hearing care professional for a comprehensive evaluation.
How to regulate blood pressure and safeguard your hearing
Blood pressure can usually be controlled by making alterations to one’s lifestyle and receiving medical care. Lowering your blood pressure might even help maintain your hearing or prevent further degeneration.
Strategies for reducing hypertension naturally
While treating hypertension is essential, it’s also crucial to take proactive steps to safeguard your ears.
Safeguarding your hearing: essential steps
In addition to managing your blood pressure, the following practices can help you protect your hearing:
Worried about hearing loss and blood pressure? Be proactiove.
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and are experiencing signs of hearing problems– such as regularly asking others to repeat what they said, struggling with conversations in noisy places, or cranking up the volume on devices– it’s time to schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your auditory well-being is important. Act promptly as early intervention can have a considerable impact.
Reach out to us now to begin the journey to improved hearing