When most individuals think of the dangers associated with high blood pressure– also known as hypertension– they often focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. 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, usually begins to show signs in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It may advance gradually and without noticeable symptoms, but the damage it creates is usually permanent. Age-related hearing loss often arises from extended exposure to sound, resulting in slow degeneration of the ear’s fragile mechanisms over time. One substantial but often overlooked contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can harm the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.

Why is it significant to understand blood pressure?

Blood pressure measures the force of blood moving through your arteries. Consistently high blood pressure can cause strain to your blood vessels. Extended exposure to this condition can result in arterial deterioration, causing the blood vessels to become rigid, constricted, or jeopardized, which in turn raises the danger of developing serious health complications, including impaired hearing.

Your blood pressure reading is composed of two numbers:

• The systolic reading, which is the higher number, signifies the force of blood flow when the heart contracts.
• The diastolic pressure, shown by the bottom number, assesses the pressure during the heart’s resting phase.

Blood pressure categories

• Normal: Less than 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
• Hypertensive Crisis: Over 180/120 mm Hg (emergency care required)

How high blood pressure can impact your ears

The ears are home to a complex network of little blood vessels that provide oxygen and nutrients to the auditory system. When hypertension compromises these vessels, the ear structures– particularly the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells known as stereocilia– can become damaged.

The stereocilia play a crucial role in transforming sound waves into electrical signals that can be understood by the brain. Regrettably, they do not regenerate once damaged. Because of this, hearing loss from vascular damage triggered by high blood pressure is typically irreversible.

High blood pressure has been discovered to be closely connected to the level of hearing impairment according to scientific research. Individuals with normal blood pressure tend to preserve better hearing over time, while those with hypertension are at greater danger for both developing and worsening hearing impairment.

Is ear discomfort a sign of high blood pressure?

In spite of the vascular damage it causes, high blood pressure rarely presents with noticeable symptoms. It is frequently known as the “silent killer” because of this. A prevalent myth is that sensations like “hot ears” or ear pressure suggest high blood pressure. Actually, these symptoms are more likely caused by hormonal changes, stress, or emotional reactions.

Certain individuals with high blood pressure might experience an exacerbation of tinnitus symptoms, identified by a relentless ringing or buzzing sensation in the ears. If you have persistent tinnitus or suspect hearing changes, it’s important to talk to a hearing care professional for a complete assessment.

How to manage blood pressure and safeguard your hearing

The good news is that blood pressure can typically be managed through lifestyle modifications and medical treatment. Reducing your blood pressure might even help preserve your hearing or prevent further degeneration.

Tips for lowering blood pressure

• Embrace a heart-healthy diet: Focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is an excellent place to start.
• Try to engage in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes each week to maintain regular exercise.
• Decrease salt intake: Reduce processed and fast foods, which are often high in sodium.
• Comply with medication guidelines: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your physician.
• Decrease anxiety: 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.

Regulating blood pressure is essential, but it’s equally important to take preventive steps to safeguard your hearing health.

Protecting your hearing: essential measures

Besides regulating your blood pressure, these behaviors can also aid in safeguarding your hearing:

• Steer clear of prolonged exposure to loud noise: Use ear protection when going to concerts, working with loud equipment, or in noisy environments.
• Use hearing protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can reduce the risk of sound-induced hearing damage.
• Regular exams with a hearing specialist can significantly improve the effectiveness of treatment and total ear health by recognizing any potential issues early on.

Worried about the possible threats to your hearing and cardiovascular health? Be proactiove.

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

Your auditory well-being is important. Act promptly as early action can have a significant impact.

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