When most people think of the dangers linked to high blood pressure– also called hypertension– they often focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. But did you know that unmanaged hypertension can also elevate your danger for hearing loss, particularly as you age?
Presbycusis, also known as age-related hearing loss, normally begins to become evident in individuals aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It might progress gradually and without noticeable symptoms, but the damage it causes is often permanent. In many instances, this type of hearing loss derives from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. An essential but frequently disregarded factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to damage the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
Why is it important to understand blood pressure?
Blood pressure tracks the force of blood moving through your arteries. Consistently high blood pressure can cause stress to your blood vessels. With time, this can cause the vessels to stiffen, narrow, or become damaged, increasing your risk for serious health issues– including hearing loss.
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.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) gauges pressure between beats.
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
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 140+/ 90+ mm Hg
- Hypertensive Crisis: Over 180/120 mm Hg (emergency care required)
- 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 routine exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
- Minimize salt intake by restricting processed and fast food intake, as they frequently incorporate high levels of sodium.
- Comply with medication guidelines: 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 quiet reflection to help you unwind and find equilibrium in your day-to-day life.
- Steer clear of extended exposure to loud noise: Use hearing protection when attending concerts, working with noisy equipment, or in loud environments.
- Use hearing protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can reduce the risk of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Schedule regular hearing exams: Early detection of hearing loss can result in better treatment results and long-term hearing health.
The impact of high blood pressure on hearing health
A fragile web of miniature blood vessels resides within the ears, providing the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it requires to work properly. When high blood pressure impacts these vessels, the structures in the ear, especially the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells called stereocilia, may sustain damage.
These stereocilia are responsible for converting sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can interpret. Regrettably, once they are damaged, they do not have the ability to heal themselves. Therefore, hearing loss resulting from vascular damage due to high blood pressure is typically permanent.
High blood pressure has been found to be closely connected to the level of hearing loss according to scientific research. People who have regular 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 soreness a sign of high blood pressure?
Although high blood pressure can lead to considerable blood vessel damage, it often does not manifest noticeable warning signs. It is often called the “silent killer” for this reason. Many individuals falsly believe that feelings like warm ears or pressure in the ears are indications of elevated blood pressure. It’s probable that these symptoms are actually the result of variations in hormone levels, high levels of stress, or intense emotional reactions.
Certain people who have high blood pressure might experience an exacerbation of tinnitus symptoms, identified by a relentless ringing or buzzing sensation in the ears. If you have ringing in your ears or notice any changes in your hearing, it’s important to make an appointment with a specialist who can conduct a thorough assessment to identify the cause.
How to manage blood pressure and safeguard your hearing
Blood pressure can frequently be controlled by making changes to one’s lifestyle and receiving medical care. Lowering your blood pressure may even help maintain your hearing or stop further deterioration.
Strategies for reducing hypertension naturally
Managing blood pressure is essential, but it’s equally vital to take preventive measures to safeguard your hearing health.
Protecting your hearing: essential steps
Besides regulating 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 difficulty– including regularly asking people to repeat what they said, struggling to hear conversations in noisy places, or turning up the volume on devices– it’s time to make an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your auditory well-being is important. Act promptly as early action can have a significant impact.
Reach out to us right now to begin the journey to improved hearing