Many people typically consider 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 likelihood of experiencing hearing impairment, particularly as you grow older?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, typically begins to show signs in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It progresses slowly with few obvious symptoms, yet the damage it inflicts can be lasting and irreversible. In many instances, this kind of hearing loss stems from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. An important but frequently disregarded factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to destroy the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.
Why is it significant to comprehend 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. Over time, this can cause the vessels to condense, narrow, or become damaged, increasing your risk for severe health issues– including hearing loss.
Your blood pressure reading is composed of two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) measures the pressure during heartbeats.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) gauges pressure between beats.
Blood pressure categories
- Normal: Less than 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 Over 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. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is an excellent place to start.
- Get routine exercise: Attempt to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exersize per week.
- Reduce sodium intake: Limit processed and fast foods, which are often high in sodium.
- Adhere to medication instructions: If advised, consistently adhere to the instructions for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your doctor.
- Minimize stress: Integrate relaxation strategies like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your day-to-day routine.
- To prevent harm from loud noises, be certain to restrict the time you spend around them. Remember to use ear protection whenever 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 reduce the chances of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
- Routine exams with a hearing specialist can considerably improve the effectiveness of treatment and overall ear health by catching 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 needs to function properly. When hypertension compromises these vessels, the ear structures– particularly the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells called stereocilia– can become damaged.
These stereocilia are in charge of translating sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can interpret. Regrettably, once they are harmed, they do not have the ability to repair themselves. Therefore, hearing loss resulting from vascular damage as a result of high blood pressure is typically permanent.
High blood pressure has been discovered to be closely linked to the level of hearing loss according to scientific research. People who have healthy blood pressure levels are more likely to maintain their hearing abilities as they age, whereas individuals who have high blood pressure are more prone to experiencing hearing loss that can intensify over time.
Is ear soreness a symptom of high blood pressure?
Although high blood pressure can cause substantial blood vessel damage, it frequently does not manifest obvious warning signs. It is sometimes referred to as the “silent killer” because of this. Many people falsly think that sensations such as warm ears or pressure in the ears are indications of high blood pressure. In reality, these symptoms are more likely caused by hormonal changes, stress, or emotional reactions.
Certain people who have high blood pressure might experience a worsening of tinnitus symptoms, identified by a relentless ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. If you have ringing in your ears or notice any shifts in your hearing, it’s important to make an appointment with a specialist who can conduct a detailed assessment to determine the cause.
How to manage blood pressure and protect your hearing
Blood pressure can frequently be controlled by making alterations to one’s lifestyle and receiving medical care. Reducing your blood pressure might even help maintain your hearing or prevent further degeneration.
Tips for lowering blood pressure
While treating hypertension is important, it’s also crucial to take proactive measures to protect your hearing.
Actions to protect your hearing health
Along with managing your blood pressure, the following practices can help you safeguard your hearing:
Worried about hearing loss and blood pressure? Be proactiove.
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension and are experiencing signs of hearing difficulty– including regularly asking others to repeat themselves, struggling with 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 quickly as early intervention can have a considerable impact.
Reach out to us right now to start the journey to improved hearing
