When the majority of individuals think of the dangers linked to high blood pressure– also called hypertension– they often focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. Were you aware that not managing high blood pressure could also heighten the probability of experiencing hearing impairment, particularly as you grow older?
Presbycusis, also called age-related hearing loss, generally begins 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. In many instances, this type of hearing loss derives from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. An important but often neglected factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to damage the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
Why is it important to comprehend blood pressure?
Blood pressure tracks the force of blood moving 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 vascular deterioration, 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 composed of two numbers:
- The systolic reading, which is the higher number, indicates the force of blood flow when the heart contracts.
- The diastolic pressure, indicated by the bottom number, assesses the pressure during the heart’s resting phase.
Categories of blood pressure
- Healthy Blood Pressure: Below 120/80 mm Hg
- Slightly High: Blood Pressure Ranges from 120-129 over Less Than 80
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 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)
- Take advantage of a diet that supports heart health by focusing on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is an excellent place to begin.
- Get routine exercise: Attempt to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exersize per week.
- Cut down on salt consumption by limiting processed and fast food eating, as they usually incorporate high levels of sodium.
- Follow medication instructions: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your doctor.
- Minimize stress: Integrate relaxation strategies like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your daily regimen.
- To prevent damage from loud noises, make sure to limit the time you spend around them. Remember to use hearing protection when you are at a concert, working with loud machinery, or in noisy settings.
- Consider utilizing protective gear for your ears, such as earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to reduce the chances of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
- Regular check-ups with a hearing specialist can significantly improve the effectiveness of treatment and total ear health by recognizing any potential issues early on.
How high blood pressure can affect your ears
A fragile web of miniature blood vessels exists within the ears, supplying the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it needs to work properly. When hypertension jeopardize these vessels, the ear structures– particularly the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells known as stereocilia– can become damaged.
These stereocilia are responsible for converting sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can translate. Regrettably, they do not regrow once damaged. As a result, hearing loss from vascular damage caused by high blood pressure is usually permanent.
High blood pressure has been discovered to be closely linked to the level of hearing loss according to scientific research. People with healthy blood pressure tend to preserve better hearing over time, while individuals with hypertension are at greater risk for both developing and exacerbating hearing impairment.
Is ear discomfort a symptom of high blood pressure?
In spite of the vascular harm it causes, high blood pressure rarely presents with obvious symptoms. It is sometimes referred to as the “silent killer” because of this. Many people wrongly believe that sensations such as warm ears or pressure in the ears are indications of high blood pressure. Actually, these symptoms are more likely caused by hormonal changes, stress, or emotional reactions.
However, some people with hypertension do report intensified symptoms of tinnitus– a ringing or buzzing in the ears. If you have ringing in your ears or notice any shifts in your hearing, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with a specialist who can conduct a detailed examination to identify the cause.
Managing blood pressure and safeguarding your hearing
Blood pressure can usually be controlled by making changes to one’s lifestyle and getting medical care. Decreasing your blood pressure could also have the added advantage of safeguarding your hearing or stopping its decline.
Strategies for reducing hypertension naturally
Managing blood pressure is essential, but it’s equally important to take preventive measures to protect your hearing health.
Actions to protect your hearing health
Along with managing your blood pressure, the following practices can help you protect your hearing:
Worried about the potential threats to your hearing and cardiovascular health? Be proactiove.
If you have high blood pressure and are experiencing problems with your hearing, like having to ask people to repeat themselves frequently, finding it hard to hear in loud settings, or needing to boost the volume on your devices, it is essential to schedule an appointment with a hearing professional.
Your hearing health matters. Don’t wait– early treatment can make a substantial difference.
Contact us today to take the first step toward better hearing.
