When most individuals think of the dangers associated with high blood pressure– also called hypertension– they tend to focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. But did you know that unmanaged hypertension can also elevate your danger for hearing loss, especially as you age?

Presbycusis, also known as age-related hearing loss, generally starts to become noticeable in individuals aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It develops slowly with few noticeable symptoms, yet the damage it does can be lasting and irreversible. In many instances, this type of hearing loss derives from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. One considerable but often overlooked contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can 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 strain to your blood vessels. Extended exposure to this condition can result in arterial degeneration, causing the blood vessels to become rigid, constricted, or jeopardized, which in turn raises the danger of developing severe health problems, including impaired hearing.

Your blood pressure reading is made up of two numbers:

• Systolic pressure (the top number) measures the pressure during heartbeats.
• The diastolic pressure, shown by the bottom number, assesses the pressure during the heart’s resting phase.

Categories of blood pressure

• 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
• Stage 2 Hypertension: 140+/ 90+ mm Hg
• Hypertensive Crisis: Over 180/120 mm Hg (emergency care required)

The impact of high blood pressure on ear health

The ears are home to an intricate network of tiny blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the auditory system. When hypertension compromises these vessels, the ear structures– particularly the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells called stereocilia– can become damaged.

These stereocilia are responsible for converting sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can translate. Unfortunately, they do not regrow once damaged. Because of this, hearing loss from vascular damage triggered by high blood pressure is typically permanent.

High blood pressure has been found to be closely connected to the degree of hearing impairment according to scientific research. People who have healthy blood pressure levels are more likely to maintain their hearing abilities as they age, whereas those who have high blood pressure are more susceptible to experiencing hearing loss that can intensify over time.

Can ear pain be a sign of high blood pressure?

Despite the vascular damage it causes, high blood pressure rarely appears with noticeable symptoms. It is commonly called the “silent killer” for this reason. Many people falsly believe that feelings such as warm ears or pressure in the ears are signs of elevated blood pressure. Actually, these symptoms are more likely caused by hormonal changes, stress, or emotional responses.

However, some people with hypertension do report intensified symptoms of tinnitus– a ringing or buzzing in the ears. If you experience chronic tinnitus or notice hearing changes, it’s important to consult a hearing care professional for a comprehensive evaluation.

Managing blood pressure and safeguarding your hearing

Blood pressure can frequently be regulated by making alterations to one’s lifestyle and getting medical care. Reducing your blood pressure might even help maintain your hearing or stop further degeneration.

Tips for reducing blood pressure

• Embrace a heart-healthy diet: Focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Consider beginning with the DASH or Mediterranean diet for a healthy basis.
• Strive to take part in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes every week to maintain regular exercise.
• Reduce sodium intake: Reduce processed and fast foods, which are typically high in salt.
• Follow medication instructions: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your physician.
• Reduce anxiety: Make time for calming activities including mindfulness exercises, mild stretches, or silent reflection to help you unwind and find balance in your daily life.

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

Protecting your hearing: vital measures

Besides regulating your blood pressure, these behaviors can also aid in protecting your hearing:

• To prevent harm from loud noises, make sure to limit the time you spend around them. Remember 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 risk of sound-induced hearing damage.
• Routine check-ups with a hearing specialist can substantially enhance the success of treatment and overall ear health by catching any potential issues early on.

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

If you are dealing with high blood pressure and are experiencing problems with your hearing, like having to ask people to repeat themselves often, finding it hard to hear in loud environments, or needing to increase the volume on your devices, it is essential to schedule 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 right 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.