Many people typically consider heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease as the main health concerns associated with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Were you aware that not controlling high blood pressure could also increase the probability of experiencing hearing impairment, especially as you grow older?
Presbycusis, also known as age-related hearing loss, normally starts to become noticeable in individuals aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It progresses slowly with few obvious symptoms, yet the damage it does can be lasting and irreversible. Age-related hearing loss often results from extended exposure to sound, resulting in gradual degeneration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. One considerable but frequently overlooked contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can damage the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
Why is it important to comprehend blood pressure?
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 condense, narrow, or become damaged, increasing your risk for severe health issues– including hearing loss.
Comprehending blood pressure: breaking down two numerical components:
- The systolic reading, which is the top number, signifies the force of blood flow when the heart contracts.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) measures pressure between beats.
Categories of blood pressure
- Healthy Blood Pressure: Below 120/80 mm Hg
- Elevated: 120-129/<80 mm Hg
- Stage 1 hypertension is defined as blood pressure readings of 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg.
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 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. 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 every week.
- Minimize salt intake by restricting processed and fast food eating, as they frequently incorporate high levels of sodium.
- Stick to medication instructions: If advised, consistently follow the guidelines for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your physician.
- Decrease stress: Make time for calming activities including mindfulness exercises, mild stretches, or silent reflection to help you unwind and find balance in your day-to-day life.
- To prevent harm from loud noises, be certain to limit the time you spend around them. Remember to use ear protection when you are at a concert, working with noisy machinery, or in noisy settings.
- Use ear protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can minimize the risk of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Routine exams with a hearing specialist can significantly enhance the success of treatment and total ear health by catching any potential issues early on.
The consequences of high blood pressure on ear health
A delicate web of miniature blood vessels exists within the ears, supplying the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it needs to work effectively. When high blood pressure impacts these vessels, the structures in the ear, especially the cochlea and small sensory hair cells called stereocilia, might suffer harm.
The stereocilia play a critical role in transforming sound waves into electrical impulses that can be understood by the brain. Regrettably, they do not regenerate once damaged. Because of this, hearing loss from vascular damage caused by high blood pressure is usually permanent.
Scientific studies show a strong connection between high blood pressure and the severity of hearing loss. Individuals who have healthy blood pressure levels are more likely to maintain their hearing abilities as they get older, whereas individuals who have high blood pressure are more susceptible to experiencing hearing loss that can intensify over time.
Is ear discomfort a sign of high blood pressure?
Although high blood pressure can lead to substantial blood vessel damage, it frequently does not exhibit noticeable warning signs. It is often called 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. In reality, these symptoms are more likely caused by hormonal changes, stress, or emotional reactions.
However, some people with hypertension do experience worsened symptoms of tinnitus– a ringing or buzzing in the ears. If you have chronic tinnitus or suspect hearing changes, it’s important to consult a hearing care professional for a comprehensive assessment.
How to manage blood pressure and safeguard your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can often be managed through lifestyle changes and medical treatment. Decreasing your blood pressure could also have the additional benefit of safeguarding your hearing or stopping its decline.
Tips for reducing blood pressure
Managing blood pressure is crucial, but it’s equally important to take preventive steps to safeguard your hearing health.
Steps to safeguard your hearing health
Besides regulating your blood pressure, these actions can also aid in safeguarding your hearing:
Worried about the potential threats to your hearing and cardiovascular health? Be proactiove.
If you are dealing with high blood pressure and are noticing issues with your hearing, like having to ask people to repeat themselves often, finding it difficult to hear in loud settings, or needing to increase the volume on your devices, it is important to schedule an appointment with a hearing professional.
Your auditory well-being is important. Act promptly as early action can have a substantial impact.
Reach out to us right now to begin the journey to better hearing
