Many people typically think of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease as the main health concerns related to high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. But did you realize that unmanaged hypertension can also increase your danger for hearing loss, especially as you get older?

Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, typically starts to show signs in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It develops slowly with few noticeable signs, yet the harm it does can be lasting and permanent. In many instances, this type of hearing loss stems from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. An essential but often ignored factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to destroy the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.

Why is it important to comprehend blood pressure?

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. With time, this can cause the vessels to condense, narrow, or become damaged, increasing your risk for severe health issues– including hearing loss.

Understanding blood pressure: breaking down two numerical components:

• Systolic pressure (the top number) measures the pressure during heartbeats.
• The diastolic pressure, shown by the bottom number, assesses the pressure during the heart’s resting phase.

Categories of blood pressure

• 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)

How high blood pressure can affect your ears

The ears are home to an intricate network of little blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the auditory system. When high blood pressure affects these vessels, the structures in the ear, especially the cochlea and small sensory hair cells called stereocilia, might sustain harm.

These stereocilia are in charge of converting sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can interpret. Regrettably, they do not regenerate once damaged. Because of this, hearing loss from vascular damage caused by high blood pressure is often irreversible.

Scientific studies reveal a powerful connection between high blood pressure and the severity of hearing loss. Individuals with normal blood pressure tend to maintain better hearing over time, while individuals with hypertension are at an increased danger for both developing and worsening hearing loss.

Can ear pain signify high blood pressure?

Although high blood pressure can lead to significant blood vessel damage, it often does not manifest obvious warning signs. It is often called the “silent killer” because of this. A common misconception is that sensations such as “hot ears” or ear pressure indicate high blood pressure. It’s probable that these symptoms are actually the outcome of fluctuations in hormone levels, high levels of stress, or strong emotional reactions.

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 persistent tinnitus or notice 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 usually be regulated by making changes to one’s lifestyle and getting medical care. Decreasing your blood pressure could also have the additional benefit of safeguarding your hearing or halting its decline.

Tips for reducing blood pressure

• Embrace a heart-healthy diet: Emphasize whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy 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.
• Decrease sodium intake: Limit processed and fast foods, which are typically high in salt.
• Follow medication instructions: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your doctor.
• Reduce stress: Make time for relaxing activities including mindfulness exercises, gentle stretches, or silent reflection to help you unwind and find equilibrium in your day-to-day life.

While treating hypertension is essential, it’s also crucial to take proactive steps to safeguard your hearing.

Protecting your hearing: essential measures

Along with controlling your blood pressure, the following habits can help you safeguard your hearing:

• Steer clear of prolonged exposure to loud noise: Use ear protection when attending concerts, working with loud equipment, or in loud environments.
• Think about using protective gear for your ears, such as earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to lower the risks of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
• Regular exams with a hearing specialist can significantly improve the success of treatment and total ear health by recognizing any potential issues early on.

Worried about hearing loss and blood pressure? Be proactiove.

If you have high blood pressure and are experiencing issues with your hearing, like having to ask people to repeat themselves often, finding it difficult to hear in noisy settings, or needing to increase the volume on your devices, it is essential to make an appointment with a hearing professional.

Your auditory well-being is important. Act quickly as early intervention can have a substantial impact.

Reach out to us right now to begin the journey to better hearing