When the majority of individuals think of the dangers linked to high blood pressure– also known as 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?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, generally begins to show indicators in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It progresses slowly with few obvious signs, yet the harm it does can be lasting and permanent. In many cases, this kind of hearing loss derives from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. One substantial but frequently ignored contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can harm the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.
Why is it significant to comprehend blood pressure?
Blood pressure is a measure of the strength of blood flow in your arteries. When this pressure is persistently too high, it puts excessive strain on your blood vessels. With time, this can cause the vessels to stiffen, narrow, or become damaged, raising 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.
- 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
- Elevated: 120-129/<80 mm Hg
- Stage 1 hypertension is characterized as blood pressure readings of 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg.
- Extreme Hypertension: Blood Pressure Above 140/90 mm Hg
- Hypertensive Crisis: Over 180/120 mm Hg (emergency care required)
- Embrace a diet that promotes 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 take part in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes each week to maintain regular exercise.
- Cut down on salt intake by limiting processed and fast food intake, as they frequently contain high levels of sodium.
- Follow medication instructions: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your doctor.
- Minimize stress: Incorporate relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your day-to-day regimen.
- Avoid extended exposure to loud noise: Use hearing protection when attending concerts, working with loud equipment, or in loud environments.
- Consider utilizing protective gear for your ears, including earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to reduce the chances of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
- Regular check-ups with a hearing specialist can considerably enhance the success of treatment and overall ear health by catching any potential issues early on.
The impact of high blood pressure on ear health
A delicate web of miniature blood vessels resides within the ears, providing the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it requires to work effectively. When high blood pressure affects these vessels, the structures in the ear, especially the cochlea and small sensory hair cells referred to as stereocilia, might sustain damage.
These stereocilia are in charge of converting sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can interpret. Sadly, once they are harmed, they do not have the ability to heal themselves. Therefore, hearing impairment resulting from vascular damage as a result of high blood pressure is frequently irreversible.
High blood pressure has been discovered to be closely connected to the degree of hearing loss according to scientific research. People who have regular blood pressure levels are more likely to preserve their hearing abilities as they age, whereas those who have high blood pressure are more prone to experiencing hearing loss that can intensify over time.
Can ear pain be a sign of high blood pressure?
In spite of the vascular harm it causes, high blood pressure rarely presents with noticeable symptoms. It is sometimes known as the “silent killer” because of this. A common myth is that sensations such as “hot ears” or ear pressure suggest high blood pressure. In reality, these symptoms are more likely due to hormonal changes, stress, or emotional reactions.
Certain people who have 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 comprehensive evaluation.
How to regulate blood pressure and protect your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can typically be managed through lifestyle modifications and medical care. Decreasing your blood pressure could also have the added benefit of safeguarding your hearing or halting its decline.
Strategies for decreasing hypertension naturally
Managing blood pressure is crucial, but it’s equally vital to take preventive measures to protect your hearing health.
Steps to protect your hearing health
Along with managing your blood pressure, the following practices can help you safeguard your hearing:
Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Take action
If you have high blood pressure and are experiencing issues with your hearing, like having to ask people to repeat themselves often, finding it difficult to hear in loud settings, or needing to boost the volume on your devices, it is important to schedule an appointment with a hearing professional.
Your auditory well-being is important. Act promptly as early action can have a considerable impact.
Reach out to us right now to begin the journey to improved hearing