When the majority of individuals think of the dangers associated with high blood pressure– also known as hypertension– they tend to focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. Were you aware that not controlling high blood pressure could also heighten the probability of experiencing hearing loss, particularly as you grow older?
Presbycusis, also called age-related hearing loss, generally starts to become evident in individuals aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It may progress gradually and without obvious symptoms, but the damage it creates is usually permanent. Age-related hearing loss frequently arises from extended exposure to sound, resulting in gradual degeneration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. One substantial but often ignored contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can damage the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
What is blood pressure and why should you pay attention to?
Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing through your arteries. When this pressure is consistently too high, it puts substantial strain on your blood vessels. Extended exposure to this condition can lead to arterial degeneration, causing the blood vessels to become stiff, constricted, or jeopardized, which in turn elevates the danger of developing serious health complications, including impaired hearing.
Comprehending blood pressure: analyzing two numerical components:
- The systolic reading, which is the top number, indicates 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
- 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)
- Take advantage of a diet that supports heart health by emphasizing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. Consider beginning with the DASH or Mediterranean diet for a healthy foundation.
- Strive to take part in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes each week to maintain regular exercise.
- Cut down on salt intake by limiting processed and fast food eating, as they usually contain high levels of sodium.
- Follow medication instructions: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your physician.
- Reduce stress: Make time for relaxing activities such as mindfulness exercises, gentle stretches, or quiet reflection to help you unwind and find balance in your daily life.
- Avoid extended exposure to loud noise: Use hearing protection when attending concerts, working with loud equipment, or in noisy environments.
- 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 result in better treatment outcomes and long-term hearing health.
How high blood pressure can affect your ears
The ears are home to an intricate network of tiny blood vessels that provide oxygen and nutrients to the auditory system. When high blood pressure affects these vessels, the structures in the ear, especially the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells called stereocilia, might suffer damage.
These stereocilia are in charge of translating sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can interpret. Sadly, once they are harmed, they do not have the ability to repair themselves. Therefore, hearing loss resulting from vascular damage due to high blood pressure is frequently irreversible.
High blood pressure has been discovered to be closely connected to the level of hearing impairment according to scientific research. Individuals with healthy blood pressure tend to preserve better hearing over time, while individuals with high blood pressure are at greater risk for both developing and worsening hearing impairment.
Can ear pain signify high blood pressure?
Even though high blood pressure can cause substantial blood vessel damage, it often does not manifest noticeable warning signs. It is commonly referred to as the “silent killer” for this reason. Many people wrongly think that sensations like warm ears or pressure in the ears are signs of elevated blood pressure. Actually, these symptoms are more likely caused by hormonal changes, stress, or emotional responses.
Certain individuals who have high blood pressure may experience a worsening of tinnitus symptoms, identified by a persistent ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. If you have persistent tinnitus or suspect hearing changes, it’s essential to talk to a hearing care professional for a complete assessment.
How to manage blood pressure and protect your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can often be managed through lifestyle changes and medical care. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the additional benefit of protecting your hearing or stopping its decline.
Strategies for reducing hypertension naturally
Regulating blood pressure is essential, but it’s equally vital to take preventive steps to safeguard your hearing health.
Protecting your hearing: vital steps
In addition to controlling your blood pressure, the following habits can help you safeguard your hearing:
Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Take action
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension and are experiencing signs of hearing problems– such as frequently asking people to repeat what they said, struggling with conversations in noisy locations, or turning up the volume on devices– it’s time to schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your auditory well-being is important. Act promptly as early intervention can have a significant impact.
Reach out to us now to begin the journey to improved hearing