Many individuals normally think of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease as the main health concerns associated with high blood pressure, also called hypertension. 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 starts to show signs in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It develops slowly with few noticeable symptoms, yet the harm it does can be lasting and irreversible. Age-related hearing loss frequently results from extended exposure to noise, leading to slow deterioration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. One significant but often ignored contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can 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. Consistently high blood pressure can cause stress to 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 serious health issues, including impaired hearing.
Understanding blood pressure: breaking down two numerical components:
- The systolic reading, which is the higher number, indicates the force of blood flow when the heart contracts.
- 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: 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)
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet: Focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is an excellent place to start.
- Strive to take part in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes each week to maintain regular exercise.
- Minimize salt intake by limiting processed and fast food intake, as they frequently contain high levels of salt.
- Adhere to medication instructions: If advised, consistently adhere to the guidelines for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your doctor.
- Reduce anxiety: Make time for relaxing activities such as mindfulness exercises, gentle stretches, or silent 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 ear protection when you are at a concert, working with loud machinery, or in loud settings.
- Think about 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.
- Regular exams with a hearing specialist can substantially improve the effectiveness of treatment and overall ear health by recognizing any potential issues early on.
The consequences of high blood pressure on ear health
The ears are home to an intricate network of tiny blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the auditory system. When hypertension jeopardize these vessels, the ear structures– particularly the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells known as stereocilia– can become damaged.
The stereocilia play a crucial role in transforming sound waves into electrical impulses that can be understood by the brain. Regrettably, they do not regrow once damaged. Because of this, hearing loss from vascular damage triggered by high blood pressure is typically permanent.
Scientific studies reveal a powerful 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 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 harm it causes, high blood pressure rarely appears with noticeable symptoms. It is frequently known as the “silent killer” because of this. A common misconception is that sensations such as “hot ears” or ear pressure suggest high blood pressure. It’s probable that these symptoms are actually the outcome of variations in hormone levels, high levels of stress, or strong emotional reactions.
Certain people who have high blood pressure may experience a worsening of tinnitus symptoms, identified by a persistent ringing or buzzing sensation in the ears. If you experience persistent tinnitus or suspect hearing changes, it’s important to consult a hearing care professional for a comprehensive evaluation.
Managing blood pressure and safeguarding your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can often be controlled through lifestyle changes and medical care. Decreasing your blood pressure could also have the additional advantage of protecting your hearing or halting its decline.
Tips for reducing blood pressure
Managing blood pressure is crucial, but it’s equally vital to take preventive measures to protect your hearing health.
Actions to safeguard your hearing health
Along with managing your blood pressure, the following habits can help you safeguard your hearing:
Worried about the possible risks to your hearing and cardiovascular health? Be proactiove.
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension and are experiencing signs of hearing problems– including regularly asking people to repeat what they said, struggling with conversations in loud places, or turning up the volume on devices– it’s time to schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your hearing health is important. Act quickly as early action can have a significant impact.
Reach out to us now to begin the journey to better hearing