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 controlling high blood pressure could also increase the likelihood of experiencing hearing loss, especially as you grow older?
Presbycusis, also called age-related hearing loss, generally starts to become noticeable in individuals aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It may advance gradually and without obvious symptoms, but the damage it causes is usually permanent. Age-related hearing loss often results from extended exposure to noise, resulting in gradual deterioration of the ear’s fragile mechanisms over time. One substantial but frequently ignored contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can harm 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 strength of blood flow in your arteries. When this pressure is consistently too high, it puts substantial strain on your blood vessels. With time, this can cause the vessels to stiffen, narrow, or become damaged, increasing your risk for serious health problems– including hearing loss.
Comprehending blood pressure: analyzing 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) measures pressure between beats.
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 defined as blood pressure readings of 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg.
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 140+/ 90+ mm Hg
- Severe High Blood Pressure: Exceeding 180/120 mm Hg (immediate medical attention necessary)
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet: Emphasize whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is a great place to begin.
- Get routine exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity every week.
- Decrease sodium intake: Limit processed and fast foods, which are often high in salt.
- Adhere to medication instructions: If recommended, consistently adhere to the guidelines for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your physician.
- Reduce stress: Integrate relaxation strategies like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your daily regimen.
- To prevent damage from loud noises, be certain to limit the time you spend around them. Don’t forget to use ear protection when you are at a concert, working with noisy machinery, or in noisy settings.
- Use hearing protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can minimize the danger of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Schedule routine hearing exams: Early detection of hearing loss can result in better treatment results and long-term auditory health.
The impact of high blood pressure on ear health
The ears are home to a complex network of little blood vessels that supply 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 critical role in transforming sound waves into electrical impulses that can be understood by the brain. Unfortunately, they do not regrow once damaged. As a result, hearing loss from vascular damage triggered by high blood pressure is typically permanent.
High blood pressure has been found to be closely connected to the level of hearing impairment according to scientific research. People with normal blood pressure tend to maintain better hearing over time, while those with hypertension are at an increased danger for both developing and worsening hearing loss.
Can ear pain signify high blood pressure?
In spite of the vascular damage it causes, high blood pressure rarely appears with noticeable symptoms. It is frequently referred to as the “silent killer” because of this. Many people wrongly believe that sensations like warm ears or pressure in the ears are indications of high blood pressure. In reality, these symptoms are more likely due to hormonal changes, stress, or emotional responses.
Certain people who have high blood pressure might experience an exacerbation of tinnitus symptoms, identified by a persistent ringing or buzzing sensation in the ears. If you have ringing in your ears or detect any changes in your hearing, it’s crucial to make an appointment with a specialist who can conduct a detailed assessment to identify the cause.
Controlling blood pressure and protecting your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can typically be controlled through lifestyle modifications and medical treatment. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the added advantage of safeguarding your hearing or stopping its decline.
Strategies for decreasing hypertension naturally
While treating hypertension is important, it’s also important to take proactive steps to safeguard your ears.
Safeguarding your hearing: essential measures
Besides managing your blood pressure, these actions can also aid in safeguarding your hearing:
Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Be proactiove.
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension and are experiencing indications of hearing problems– including regularly asking others to repeat themselves, struggling with conversations in noisy places, or turning up the volume on devices– it’s time to schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your hearing health matters. Don’t wait– early intervention can make a considerable difference.
Reach out to us today to take the first step toward better hearing.