When the majority of individuals think of the dangers associated with high blood pressure– also known as hypertension– they often focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. Were you aware that not managing high blood pressure could also heighten the probability of experiencing hearing loss, especially as you grow older?
Presbycusis, also called age-related hearing loss, normally begins to become noticeable in people aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It develops slowly with few obvious signs, yet the damage it inflicts can be lasting and irreversible. In many instances, this kind of hearing loss derives from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. One substantial but often overlooked contributing factor is high blood pressure, which can damage the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.
What is blood pressure and why should you care?
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 arterial degeneration, causing the blood vessels to become rigid, constricted, or jeopardized, which in turn elevates the danger of developing severe health issues, including impaired hearing.
Your blood pressure reading is made up of two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) measures the pressure during heartbeats.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) gauges pressure between beats.
Categories of blood pressure
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
- Elevated: 120-129/<80 mm Hg
- Stage 1 hypertension is characterized as blood pressure readings of 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg.
- Extreme Hypertension: Blood Pressure Over 140/90 mm Hg
- Severe High Blood Pressure: Exceeding 180/120 mm Hg (immediate medical attention necessary)
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet: Focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is a great place to begin.
- Try 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 usually contain high levels of salt.
- Stick to medication instructions: If recommended, consistently follow the instructions for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your doctor.
- Reduce stress: Integrate relaxation strategies like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your daily regimen.
- 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 noisy 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.
- Schedule regular hearing exams: Early detection of hearing loss can lead to better treatment results and long-term hearing health.
How high blood pressure can affect 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 jeopardize these vessels, the ear structures– particularly the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells called stereocilia– can become damaged.
These stereocilia are in charge of converting sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can translate. Unfortunately, they do not regrow once damaged. As a result, hearing loss from vascular damage caused by high blood pressure is usually permanent.
High blood pressure has been found to be closely connected to the degree of hearing loss according to scientific research. People who have healthy blood pressure levels are more likely to preserve their hearing abilities as they age, whereas individuals who have high blood pressure are more susceptible to experiencing hearing loss that can worsen over time.
Is ear soreness a sign of high blood pressure?
Although high blood pressure can lead to considerable blood vessel damage, it frequently does not exhibit obvious warning signs. It is commonly referred to as the “silent killer” for this reason. A common myth is that sensations like “hot ears” or ear pressure suggest high blood pressure. It’s probable that these symptoms are really the outcome of variations in hormone levels, high levels of stress, or strong emotional responses.
Certain individuals who have high blood pressure might experience a worsening of tinnitus symptoms, characterized by a persistent ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. If you experience chronic tinnitus or suspect hearing changes, it’s essential to talk to a hearing care professional for a comprehensive assessment.
How to regulate blood pressure and safeguard your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can often be controlled through lifestyle modifications and medical treatment. Reducing your blood pressure may even help preserve your hearing or stop further deterioration.
Strategies for decreasing hypertension naturally
Managing blood pressure is essential, but it’s equally vital to take preventive measures to protect your hearing health.
Safeguarding your hearing: essential steps
Besides managing your blood pressure, these actions can also aid in protecting your hearing:
Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Take action
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and are experiencing signs of hearing problems– such as regularly asking others to repeat themselves, struggling with conversations in noisy places, or turning up the volume on devices– it’s time to make an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your hearing health matters. Don’t wait– early treatment can make a significant difference.
Reach out to us right away to take the first step toward better hearing.