Many individuals normally consider heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease as the primary health concerns associated with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. But did you know that unmanaged hypertension can also elevate your risk for hearing loss, especially as you age?

Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, usually starts to show indicators in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It might advance gradually and without obvious symptoms, but the damage it creates is usually permanent. Age-related hearing loss frequently arises from prolonged exposure to noise, resulting in slow degeneration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. One substantial but frequently overlooked contributing factor is high blood pressure, which can damage the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.

What is blood pressure and why should you care?

Blood pressure is a measure of the power of blood flow in your arteries. When this pressure is consistently too high, it puts excessive strain on your blood vessels. Prolonged exposure to this condition can result in vascular degeneration, causing the blood vessels to become stiff, constricted, or jeopardized, which in turn raises the danger of developing severe health issues, including impaired hearing.

Your blood pressure reading is made up of two numbers:

• Systolic pressure (the top number) measures the pressure during heartbeats.
• Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) measures pressure between beats.

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 characterized as blood pressure readings of 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg.
• Severe Hypertension: Blood Pressure Above 140/90 mm Hg
• Hypertensive Crisis: Over 180/120 mm Hg (emergency care required)

The impact of high blood pressure on hearing health

A delicate web of miniature blood vessels exists within the ears, providing the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it needs to work properly. When high blood pressure impacts these vessels, the structures in the ear, especially the cochlea and small sensory hair cells called stereocilia, might suffer damage.

These stereocilia are responsible for converting sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can translate. Regrettably, they do not regenerate once damaged. As a result, hearing loss from vascular damage caused by high blood pressure is often irreversible.

Scientific studies reveal a powerful correlation between high blood pressure and the severity of hearing loss. People with normal blood pressure tend to preserve better hearing over time, while those with high blood pressure are at greater danger for both developing and worsening hearing impairment.

Is ear soreness a sign of high blood pressure?

Although high blood pressure can cause substantial blood vessel damage, it frequently does not manifest obvious warning signs. It is sometimes referred to as the “silent killer” because of this. Many people wrongly think that feelings like warm ears or pressure in the ears are signs of high blood pressure. In reality, these symptoms are more likely caused by hormonal changes, stress, or emotional reactions.

However, some people with hypertension do experience intensified symptoms of tinnitus– a ringing or buzzing 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.

Managing blood pressure and protecting your hearing

Blood pressure can usually be regulated by making changes to one’s lifestyle and receiving medical care. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the additional benefit of safeguarding your hearing or stopping its decline.

Tips for reducing blood pressure

• Adopt a heart-healthy diet: Emphasize whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is a great place to begin.
• Try to engage in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes every week to maintain regular exercise.
• Minimize salt consumption by restricting processed and fast food intake, as they frequently incorporate high levels of sodium.
• Adhere to medication instructions: If advised, consistently follow the guidelines for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your physician.
• Reduce 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 crucial, but it’s equally important to take preventive measures to safeguard your hearing health.

Actions to protect your hearing health

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

• To prevent damage from loud noises, make sure to limit the time you spend around them. Don’t forget to use hearing protection whenever you are at a concert, working with noisy machinery, or in noisy settings.
• Use hearing protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can reduce the danger of sound-induced hearing damage.
• Schedule routine hearing tests: Early detection of hearing loss can result in better treatment results and long-term hearing health.

Worried about the possible threats to your hearing and cardiovascular health? Take action

If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and are experiencing indications of hearing problems– such as frequently asking people to repeat themselves, struggling with conversations in noisy places, or cranking up the volume on devices– it’s time to schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist.

Your hearing health is important. Act quickly as early action can have a substantial impact.

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