Many people typically consider heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease as the primary health concerns associated with high blood pressure, also called hypertension. But did you know that unmanaged hypertension can also elevate your danger for hearing loss, especially as you get older?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, usually begins to show signs in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It develops slowly with few noticeable signs, yet the damage it inflicts can be lasting and permanent. Age-related hearing loss frequently results from prolonged exposure to sound, resulting in gradual degeneration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. One substantial but often overlooked contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can harm the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
Why is it significant to understand blood pressure?
Blood pressure is a measure of the power of blood flow in your arteries. Consistently high blood pressure can cause strain to your blood vessels. Extended exposure to this condition can lead to arterial deterioration, causing the blood vessels to become stiff, constricted, or compromised, which in turn raises the danger of developing severe health issues, including impaired hearing.
Understanding blood pressure: breaking down two numerical components:
- The systolic reading, which is the higher number, signifies the force of blood flow when the heart contracts.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) gauges pressure between beats.
Blood pressure categories
- Healthy Blood Pressure: Below 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
- Severe High Blood Pressure: Exceeding 180/120 mm Hg (immediate medical attention necessary)
- Embrace a diet that promotes heart health by focusing on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is an excellent place to begin.
- Get regular exercise: Attempt to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exersize per week.
- Reduce salt intake: Limit processed and fast foods, which are typically high in salt.
- Stick to medication instructions: If advised, consistently follow the instructions for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your doctor.
- Reduce stress: Make time for relaxing activities including mindfulness exercises, mild stretches, or silent reflection to help you unwind and find balance in your daily life.
- Steer clear of extended exposure to loud noise: Wear ear protection when attending concerts, working with noisy equipment, or in loud settings.
- Use ear protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can reduce the danger of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Routine check-ups with a hearing specialist can substantially enhance the success of treatment and overall ear health by recognizing any potential issues early on.
How high blood pressure can impact your ears
A delicate web of miniature blood vessels exists within the ears, providing the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it requires to function effectively. When hypertension compromises these vessels, the ear structures– particularly 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 interpret. Regrettably, they do not regenerate once damaged. As a result, hearing loss from vascular damage caused by high blood pressure is usually irreversible.
Scientific studies show a strong correlation between elevated blood pressure and the extent of hearing loss. People who have healthy blood pressure levels are more likely to preserve 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.
Can ear pain be a sign of high blood pressure?
Even though high blood pressure can cause considerable blood vessel damage, it often does not manifest obvious warning signs. It is frequently referred to as the “silent killer” because of this. A common myth is that sensations like “hot ears” or ear pressure suggest high blood pressure. In reality, these symptoms are more likely caused by hormonal changes, stress, or emotional reactions.
However, some individuals with hypertension do experience worsened 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 crucial to schedule an appointment with a specialist who can conduct a detailed examination to determine the cause.
Controlling blood pressure and protecting your hearing
Blood pressure can frequently be regulated by making changes to one’s lifestyle and receiving medical care. Lowering your blood pressure may even help preserve your hearing or stop further deterioration.
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
Besides managing your blood pressure, these behaviors can also aid in safeguarding 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 indications of hearing problems– including frequently asking others to repeat what they said, struggling to hear conversations in noisy locations, or turning 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 action can have a substantial impact.
Reach out to us now to start the journey to better hearing
