Are you aware that your risk of developing age-related hearing loss can be increased if you have high blood pressure?
From around 40 years old and up, you might begin to detect that your hearing is beginning to go. You probably won’t even notice your progressing hearing loss even though it’s a permanent condition. Years of noise damage is usually the cause. So how is hearing loss caused by hypertension? The blood vessels inside of your ears and your blood vessels in general can be damaged by high blood pressure.
Blood pressure and why it’s so significant
Blood pressure is a measure of how rapidly blood runs through your circulatory system. High blood pressure means that this blood moves more rapidly than normal. Damage to your blood vessels can happen over time because of this. These damaged vessels grow less flexible and more prone to blockages. Cardiovascular issues, like a stroke, can be the consequence of these blockages. That’s one reason why healthcare professionals frequently pay close attention to your blood pressure.
So, what is regarded as high blood pressure?
The basic ratings for blood pressure include the following:
- Normal: 120/8o
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139/80-89
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 140 or Higher/90 or higher
A hypertensive crisis happens when your blood pressure goes over 180/120. This kind of event should be treated immediately.
How does hypertension cause hearing loss?
The blood vessels in your ear and your whole body can be damaged by hypertension. Typically, the nerves in your ear will also be compromised along with these blood vessels. Additionally, high blood pressure can negatively affect the stereocilia in your ear (the little hairs responsible for sensing vibrations). These stereocilia are not able to self-regeneration, so any damage they sustain is irreversible.
This means that damage to the ears, regardless of the cause, can contribute to permanent hearing loss. According to some studies, the percentage of people who have hearing loss is higher when they have high blood pressure readings. People who reported higher blood pressure were also more likely to have more extreme hearing loss. The findings of the research make clear that keeping your blood pressure under control can help you prevent the impacts of hearing loss.
What does high blood pressure feel like in your ears?
Usually, the symptoms of high blood pressure are hardly noticeable. High blood pressure doesn’t cause “hot ears”. “Hot ears” is a condition where your ears feel hot and get red. Normally, it’s an indication of changes in blood flow related to emotions, hormones, and other non-blood pressure-related problems.
High blood pressure can sometimes exacerbate tinnitus symptoms. But how do you know if tinnitus is a result of high blood pressure? The only way to tell for certain is to talk to your doctor. In general, however, tinnitus isn’t a symptom of high blood pressure. High blood pressure is sometimes called “the silent killer” for a good reason.
Usually, it isn’t until you have your vitals taken at your annual exam that high blood pressure is discovered. This is one good reason to make sure you go to your yearly appointments.
How can you lower your blood pressure?
Normally, there are many factors that contribute to high blood pressure. That’s why lowering blood pressure might call for a variety of strategies. Your primary care physician should be where you address your high blood pressure. Here’s what that management might entail:
- Take medication as prescribed: In some cases, no amount of diet and exercise can prevent or successfully treat high blood pressure. In those instances, (and even in cases where lifestyle changes have helped), medication may be required to help you control your hypertension.
- Diet changes: Eating a Mediterranean diet can help you lower blood pressure. Eat more fruits and vegetables and abstain from things like red meat.
- Avoid sodium: Keep the salt intake to a minimum. Avoid processed food when you can and find lower sodium alternatives if you can.
- Get more exercise: Your blood pressure can be kept under control by exercising regularly.
You and your doctor will develop a treatment plan to deal with your blood pressure. Can you reverse any hearing loss brought on by high blood pressure? The answer depends. There is some evidence to suggest that decreasing your blood pressure can help restore your hearing, at least in part. But it’s also likely that at least some of the damage incurred will be irreversible.
Your hearing will have a better possibility of recuperating if you address your blood pressure quickly.
How to safeguard your hearing
While lowering your blood pressure can definitely be good for your health (and your hearing), there are other ways to safeguard your hearing. This could include:
- Talk to us: Having your hearing screened regularly can help you maintain your hearing and detect any hearing loss early.
- Wear hearing protection: Earmuff, earplugs, and even noise canceling headphones can help you safeguard your hearing.
- Avoiding loud venues and events: Loud noises should be avoided because they can cause damage. If you really need to be in an environment with overly loud noise, at least limit your exposure time.
We can help you protect your hearing into the future, so book an appointment as soon as possible.