Many individuals normally think of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease as the main health concerns related to high blood pressure, also called hypertension. But did you know that unmanaged hypertension can also increase your danger for hearing loss, especially as you age?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, generally begins to show signs in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It progresses slowly with few noticeable symptoms, yet the damage 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. An important but often ignored factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to damage the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.
What is blood pressure and why should you pay attention to?
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. Prolonged exposure to this condition can lead to arterial degeneration, causing the blood vessels to become stiff, constricted, or compromised, which in turn elevates the risk of developing severe health complications, including impaired hearing.
Your blood pressure reading is composed of two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) determines the pressure during heartbeats.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) measures pressure between beats.
Blood pressure categories
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
- Elevated: 120-129/<80 mm Hg
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 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 supports 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.
- Get regular exercise: Attempt to get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
- Reduce sodium intake: Limit processed and fast foods, which are often high in salt.
- Follow medication guidelines: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your doctor.
- Reduce stress: Make time for calming activities such as mindfulness exercises, mild stretches, or quiet reflection to help you unwind and find balance in your daily life.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to loud noise: Use hearing protection when attending concerts, working with loud equipment, or in noisy settings.
- Use hearing protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can reduce the risk of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Schedule regular hearing exams: Early detection of hearing loss can lead to better treatment results and long-term auditory health.
How high blood pressure can affect your ears
The ears are home to a complex network of tiny blood vessels that provide oxygen and nutrients to the auditory system. When hypertension jeopardize these vessels, the ear structures– particularly the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells called stereocilia– can become damaged.
The stereocilia play a crucial role in converting sound waves into electrical signals that can be understood by the brain. Regrettably, they do not regrow once damaged. As a result, hearing loss from vascular damage triggered by high blood pressure is often irreversible.
High blood pressure has been found to be closely linked to the degree of hearing impairment according to scientific research. Individuals with healthy blood pressure tend to preserve better hearing over time, while those with hypertension are at an increased risk for both developing and worsening hearing impairment.
Is ear discomfort a sign of high blood pressure?
Although high blood pressure can cause substantial blood vessel damage, it often does not exhibit obvious warning signs. It is sometimes referred to as the “silent killer” because of this. Many people falsly think that feelings like warm ears or pressure in the ears are signs of elevated blood pressure. It’s likely that these symptoms are really the result of variations in hormone levels, high levels of stress, or intense emotional reactions.
However, some individuals with hypertension do experience intensified symptoms of tinnitus– a ringing or buzzing in the ears. If you experience persistent tinnitus or suspect hearing changes, it’s important to consult a hearing care professional for a complete evaluation.
Managing blood pressure and protecting your hearing
Blood pressure can frequently be controlled by making changes to one’s lifestyle and getting medical care. Reducing your blood pressure may even help maintain your hearing or prevent further deterioration.
Tips for reducing blood pressure
While treating hypertension is important, it’s also crucial to take proactive steps to protect your ears.
Safeguarding your hearing: vital measures
Besides regulating your blood pressure, these actions can also aid in safeguarding your hearing:
Worried about hearing loss and blood pressure? Take action
If you have high blood pressure and are noticing problems with your hearing, like having to ask people to repeat themselves often, finding it hard to hear in noisy settings, or needing to increase the volume on your devices, it is important to make an appointment with a hearing professional.
Your hearing health is important. Act quickly as early action can have a significant impact.
Reach out to us right now to begin the journey to improved hearing