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

Presbycusis, also called age-related hearing loss, generally starts to become evident in people aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It progresses slowly with few obvious signs, yet the damage it does can be lasting and permanent. In many cases, this kind of hearing loss derives from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. An essential but often disregarded factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to damage the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.

What is blood pressure and why should you pay attention to?

Blood pressure is a measure of the power of blood flow in your arteries. Consistently high blood pressure can cause stress to your blood vessels. Over time, this can cause the vessels to stiffen, narrow, or become damaged, raising your risk for serious health issues– including hearing loss.

Your blood pressure reading is made up of two numbers:

• The systolic reading, which is the top number, signifies the force of blood flow when the heart contracts.
• Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) gauges 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: 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg
• Severe Hypertension: Blood Pressure Over 140/90 mm Hg
• Severe High Blood Pressure: Exceeding 180/120 mm Hg (immediate medical attention necessary)

How high blood pressure can impact your ears

A fragile web of miniature blood vessels resides within the ears, providing the auditory system with the oxygen and nutrients it requires to function effectively. When hypertension jeopardize these vessels, the ear structures– particularly the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells known as stereocilia– can become damaged.

The stereocilia play a critical role in converting sound waves into electrical impulses that can be understood by the brain. Regrettably, they do not regrow once damaged. As a result, hearing loss from vascular damage caused by high blood pressure is often irreversible.

High blood pressure has been discovered to be closely connected to the degree of hearing impairment according to scientific research. People with normal blood pressure tend to maintain better hearing over time, while individuals with hypertension are at an increased risk for both developing and worsening hearing loss.

Can ear pain signify high blood pressure?

In spite of the vascular damage it causes, high blood pressure rarely presents with obvious symptoms. It is often called the “silent killer” for this reason. Many individuals falsly think that feelings like warm ears or pressure in the ears are indications of elevated blood pressure. It’s probable that these symptoms are really the outcome of variations in hormone levels, high levels of stress, or strong emotional responses.

Certain people who have high blood pressure may experience an exacerbation of tinnitus symptoms, identified by a persistent ringing or buzzing sensation in the ears. If you have ringing in your ears or detect any shifts in your hearing, it’s crucial to make an appointment with a specialist who can carry out a detailed assessment to determine the cause.

Managing blood pressure and protecting your hearing

Blood pressure can usually be regulated by making changes to one’s lifestyle and getting medical care. Lowering your blood pressure might even help maintain your hearing or prevent further degeneration.

Strategies for decreasing hypertension naturally

• Take advantage of a diet that supports heart health by emphasizing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is an excellent place to start.
• Get regular exercise: Attempt to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exersize per week.
• Minimize salt consumption by limiting processed and fast food intake, as they frequently contain high levels of sodium.
• Follow medication guidelines: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your doctor.
• Minimize stress: Incorporate relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your daily regimen.

Regulating blood pressure is essential, but it’s equally vital to take preventive measures to protect your hearing health.

Protecting your hearing: essential steps

In addition to managing your blood pressure, the following practices can help you protect your hearing:

• To prevent damage from loud noises, be certain to restrict the time you spend around them. Don’t forget to use ear protection whenever you are at a concert, working with noisy machinery, or in loud settings.
• Use hearing protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can minimize the risk of sound-induced hearing damage.
• Schedule routine hearing exams: Early detection of hearing loss can lead to better treatment outcomes and long-term hearing health.

Worried about hearing loss and blood pressure? Take action

If you are dealing with high blood pressure and are noticing problems with your hearing, like having to ask people to repeat themselves frequently, finding it difficult to hear in noisy environments, or needing to increase the volume on your devices, it is essential to make an appointment with a hearing specialist.

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

Reach out to us now to start the journey to improved hearing

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.