When most people think of the dangers linked to high blood pressure– also called hypertension– they tend to focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. Were you aware that not controlling high blood pressure could also heighten the likelihood of experiencing hearing loss, especially as you grow older?

Presbycusis, also called age-related hearing loss, normally starts to become evident in people aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It develops slowly with few obvious signs, yet the damage it inflicts can be lasting and irreversible. Age-related hearing loss frequently results from prolonged exposure to sound, resulting in gradual degeneration of the ear’s fragile mechanisms over time. An essential but often neglected factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to destroy the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.

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

Blood pressure tracks the force of blood moving through your arteries. Consistently high blood pressure can cause stress to your blood vessels. With time, this can cause the vessels to condense, narrow, or become damaged, raising your risk for severe health problems– including hearing loss.

Your blood pressure reading is made up of two numbers:

• The systolic reading, which is the top number, indicates the force of blood flow when the heart contracts.
• The diastolic pressure, shown by the bottom number, assesses the pressure during the heart’s resting phase.

Blood pressure categories

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

The consequences of high blood pressure on ear health

The ears are home to a complex network of tiny blood vessels that provide oxygen and nutrients to the auditory system. When hypertension jeopardize these vessels, the ear structures– especially the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells known as stereocilia– can become damaged.

These stereocilia are responsible for translating sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can interpret. Regrettably, they do not regrow once damaged. As a result, hearing loss from vascular damage triggered by high blood pressure is typically permanent.

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

Can ear pain signify high blood pressure?

Even though high blood pressure can cause considerable blood vessel damage, it frequently does not manifest obvious warning signs. It is sometimes known as the “silent killer” because of this. 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 due to hormonal changes, stress, or emotional reactions.

Certain people with high blood pressure might experience an exacerbation of tinnitus symptoms, identified by a relentless ringing or buzzing sensation in the ears. If you experience persistent tinnitus or notice hearing changes, it’s important to consult a hearing care professional for a complete evaluation.

How to manage blood pressure and protect your hearing

The good news is that blood pressure can often be managed through lifestyle modifications and medical treatment. Reducing your blood pressure might even help preserve your hearing or stop further deterioration.

Strategies for reducing hypertension naturally

• Embrace a diet that supports heart health by emphasizing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. Consider starting with the DASH or Mediterranean diet for a healthy basis.
• Get regular exercise: Attempt to get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity every week.
• Decrease salt intake: Reduce processed and fast foods, which are often high in sodium.
• Follow medication guidelines: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your physician.
• Decrease stress: Make time for calming activities including mindfulness exercises, mild stretches, or silent reflection to help you unwind and find equilibrium in your daily life.

While managing hypertension is essential, it’s also important to take proactive measures to protect your hearing.

Steps to safeguard your hearing health

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

• Avoid extended exposure to loud noise: Use hearing protection when attending concerts, working with loud equipment, or in loud environments.
• Think about using protective gear for your ears, such as earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to reduce the risks of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
• Schedule routine hearing tests: Early detection of hearing loss can lead to better treatment results and long-term auditory health.

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

If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and are experiencing signs of hearing problems– including frequently asking people to repeat what they said, struggling to hear conversations in noisy locations, or turning up the volume on devices– it’s time to make an appointment with a hearing specialist.

Your hearing health matters. Don’t wait– early intervention can make a significant difference.
Reach out to us right away to take the first step toward better 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.