When the majority of people think of the dangers linked to high blood pressure– also known as hypertension– they often focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. But did you realize that unmanaged hypertension can also elevate your risk for hearing loss, especially as you age?
Presbycusis, also known as age-related hearing loss, generally begins to become noticeable in individuals aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It develops slowly with few obvious signs, yet the damage it does can be lasting and permanent. Age-related hearing loss often results from extended exposure to sound, resulting in slow degeneration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. One considerable but frequently overlooked contributing factor is high blood pressure, which can damage the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
Why is it important to comprehend blood pressure?
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 raises the risk of developing serious health issues, including impaired hearing.
Understanding blood pressure: analyzing 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.
Blood pressure categories
- 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
- Hypertensive Crisis: Over 180/120 mm Hg (emergency care required)
- Embrace a diet that promotes heart health by emphasizing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. Consider beginning with the DASH or Mediterranean diet for a healthy basis.
- Get routine exercise: Attempt to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exersize every week.
- Minimize salt intake by limiting processed and fast food eating, as they usually incorporate high levels of salt.
- Follow medication instructions: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your physician.
- Reduce anxiety: Make time for calming activities including mindfulness exercises, gentle stretches, or quiet reflection to help you unwind and find equilibrium in your daily life.
- Steer clear of prolonged exposure to loud noise: Use hearing protection when going to concerts, working with noisy equipment, or in noisy 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 enhance the effectiveness of treatment and total ear health by catching any potential issues early on.
How high blood pressure can affect your ears
The ears are home to a complex network of little blood vessels that provide oxygen and nutrients to the auditory system. When high blood pressure impacts these vessels, the structures in the ear, especially the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells called stereocilia, might suffer harm.
These stereocilia are in charge of converting sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can translate. Unfortunately, they do not regenerate once damaged. As a result, hearing loss from vascular damage caused by high blood pressure is usually permanent.
High blood pressure has been discovered to be closely connected to the level of hearing loss according to scientific research. Individuals with normal blood pressure tend to maintain better hearing over time, while individuals with hypertension are at greater risk for both developing and worsening hearing impairment.
Is ear soreness a symptom of high blood pressure?
Even though high blood pressure can lead to considerable blood vessel damage, it often does not manifest noticeable warning signs. It is often called the “silent killer” for this reason. Many people falsly believe that feelings like warm ears or pressure in the ears are signs of elevated blood pressure. In reality, these symptoms are more likely due to hormonal changes, stress, or emotional reactions.
Certain individuals who have high blood pressure may experience an exacerbation of tinnitus symptoms, identified by a relentless ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. If you have persistent tinnitus or notice hearing changes, it’s important to consult a hearing care professional for a complete evaluation.
How to manage blood pressure and safeguard your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can often be controlled through lifestyle changes and medical care. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the additional benefit of safeguarding your hearing or stopping its decline.
Strategies for reducing hypertension naturally
Managing blood pressure is essential, but it’s equally important to take preventive measures to safeguard your hearing health.
Steps to protect your hearing health
Along with controlling your blood pressure, the following habits can help you safeguard your hearing:
Worried about hearing loss and blood pressure? Take action
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension and are experiencing signs of hearing difficulty– including frequently asking others to repeat what they said, struggling to hear conversations in loud 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 intervention can have a considerable impact.
Reach out to us right now to begin the journey to improved hearing