When most people think of the risks associated with high blood pressure– also called hypertension– they often focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. Were you aware that not controlling high blood pressure could also increase the probability of experiencing hearing impairment, especially as you grow older?
Presbycusis, also known as age-related hearing loss, normally begins to become evident in people aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It develops slowly with few obvious symptoms, yet the harm it inflicts can be lasting and permanent. Age-related hearing loss frequently arises from extended exposure to noise, leading to slow deterioration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. An important but often neglected factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to destroy the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.
Why is it significant to comprehend blood pressure?
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. With time, this can cause the vessels to condense, narrow, or become damaged, increasing your risk for serious health issues– including hearing loss.
Comprehending blood pressure: analyzing two numerical components:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) determines the pressure during heartbeats.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) gauges pressure between beats.
Categories of blood pressure
- Healthy Blood Pressure: Below 120/80 mm Hg
- Elevated: 120-129/<80 mm Hg
- Stage 1 hypertension is defined as blood pressure readings of 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg.
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 140+/ 90+ mm Hg
- Hypertensive Crisis: Over 180/120 mm Hg (emergency care required)
- Take advantage of a diet that promotes heart health by focusing on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is a great place to start.
- Strive to engage in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes every week to maintain regular exercise.
- Cut down on salt consumption by limiting processed and fast food eating, as they frequently incorporate high levels of sodium.
- Comply with medication instructions: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your doctor.
- Decrease anxiety: 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.
- To prevent damage from loud noises, be certain to restrict the time you spend around them. Remember 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 reduce the danger of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Routine check-ups with a hearing specialist can substantially improve the success of treatment and total ear health by recognizing any potential issues early on.
The impact of high blood pressure on hearing health
The ears are home to an intricate network of tiny blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the auditory system. When hypertension jeopardize these vessels, the ear structures– particularly the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells called stereocilia– can become damaged.
The stereocilia play a crucial role in transforming sound waves into electrical impulses that can be understood by the brain. Sadly, once they are harmed, they do not have the ability to repair themselves. Therefore, hearing impairment resulting from vascular damage as a result of high blood pressure is typically irreversible.
High blood pressure has been discovered to be closely linked to the degree of hearing loss according to scientific research. People with normal blood pressure tend to preserve better hearing over time, while individuals with high blood pressure are at greater danger for both developing and exacerbating hearing impairment.
Is ear soreness a symptom of high blood pressure?
Although high blood pressure can lead to considerable blood vessel damage, it often does not exhibit obvious warning signs. It is commonly referred to as the “silent killer” for this reason. Many individuals wrongly believe that feelings such as warm ears or pressure in the ears are indications of high blood pressure. In reality, these symptoms are more likely due to hormonal changes, stress, or 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 notice any changes in your hearing, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a specialist who can carry out a thorough assessment to determine the cause.
Managing blood pressure and protecting your hearing
Blood pressure can frequently be regulated by making alterations to one’s lifestyle and receiving medical care. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the added advantage of protecting your hearing or stopping its decline.
Tips for lowering blood pressure
While managing hypertension is important, it’s also crucial to take practical measures to protect your hearing.
Steps to protect your hearing health
In addition to controlling your blood pressure, the following habits can help you safeguard your hearing:
Worried about hearing loss and blood pressure? Be proactiove.
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension and are experiencing indications of hearing difficulty– including frequently asking others to repeat themselves, 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 substantial impact.
Reach out to us now to begin the journey to better hearing