When the majority of people think of the risks linked to high blood pressure– also called hypertension– they often focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. But did you realize that unmanaged hypertension can also elevate your danger for hearing loss, especially as you get older?
Presbycusis, also called age-related hearing loss, normally begins to become noticeable in people aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It progresses slowly with few noticeable signs, yet the harm it does can be lasting and permanent. Age-related hearing loss often results from extended exposure to sound, leading to slow deterioration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. An essential but often neglected factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to destroy the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.
What is blood pressure and why should you care?
Blood pressure is a measure of the power of blood flow in your arteries. When this pressure is consistently too high, it puts substantial strain on your blood vessels. Extended exposure to this condition can result in vascular degeneration, causing the blood vessels to become rigid, constricted, or jeopardized, which in turn elevates the risk of developing serious health complications, including impaired hearing.
Your blood pressure reading is made up of two numbers:
- The systolic reading, which is the higher number, indicates the force of blood flow when the heart contracts.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) gauges 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.
- Severe Hypertension: Blood Pressure Above 140/90 mm Hg
- Hypertensive Crisis: Over 180/120 mm Hg (emergency care required)
- Take advantage of a diet that promotes heart health by emphasizing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is an excellent place to start.
- Strive to engage in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes every week to maintain regular exercise.
- Cut down on salt consumption by limiting processed and fast food eating, as they usually contain high levels of sodium.
- Comply with medication instructions: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your physician.
- Reduce stress: Make time for relaxing activities including mindfulness exercises, mild stretches, or quiet reflection to help you unwind and find balance in your daily life.
- To prevent harm from loud noises, be certain to restrict the time you spend around them. Remember to use hearing protection when you are at a concert, working with noisy machinery, or in loud settings.
- Consider utilizing protective gear for your ears, including earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to lower the chances of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
- Schedule routine hearing exams: Early detection of hearing loss can result in better treatment results and long-term auditory health.
The impact of high blood pressure on hearing health
A fragile web of miniature blood vessels exists within the ears, providing the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function properly. When hypertension compromises these vessels, the ear structures– especially the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells known as stereocilia– can become damaged.
The stereocilia play a crucial role in converting sound waves into electrical impulses that can be understood by the brain. Unfortunately, they do not regenerate once damaged. As a result, hearing loss from vascular damage triggered by high blood pressure is typically irreversible.
Scientific studies reveal a strong connection between high 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 those who have high blood pressure are more susceptible to experiencing hearing loss that can worsen over time.
Is ear soreness a sign of high blood pressure?
In spite of the vascular harm it causes, high blood pressure rarely presents with noticeable symptoms. It is frequently known as the “silent killer” as a result of this. A prevalent myth is that sensations such as “hot ears” or ear pressure suggest high blood pressure. Actually, these symptoms are more likely caused by hormonal changes, stress, or emotional responses.
However, some people with hypertension do experience intensified symptoms of tinnitus– a ringing or buzzing in the ears. If you have ringing in your ears or detect any changes in your hearing, it’s important to make an appointment with a specialist who can carry out a thorough assessment to identify the cause.
How to regulate blood pressure and protect your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can often be controlled through lifestyle modifications and medical care. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the additional benefit of safeguarding your hearing or halting its decline.
Tips for reducing blood pressure
While treating hypertension is important, it’s also important to take proactive measures to safeguard your hearing.
Safeguarding your hearing: vital steps
Besides regulating your blood pressure, these behaviors can also aid in safeguarding your hearing:
Worried about the potential threats to your hearing and cardiovascular health? Be proactiove.
If you have 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 noisy environments, or needing to boost the volume on your devices, it is essential to make an appointment with a hearing professional.
Your hearing health matters. Don’t wait– early intervention can make a significant difference.
Reach out to us right away to take the first step toward better hearing.