Many people typically think of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease as the main health concerns related to high blood pressure, also called hypertension. Were you aware that not controlling high blood pressure could also heighten the likelihood of experiencing hearing impairment, especially as you grow older?

Presbycusis, also called age-related hearing loss, generally begins to become evident in people aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It develops slowly with few obvious signs, yet the harm it inflicts can be lasting and permanent. In many cases, this type of hearing loss derives from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. One considerable but frequently ignored contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can harm the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.

What is blood pressure and why should you care?

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. Over time, this can cause the vessels to condense, narrow, or become damaged, increasing your risk for severe health issues– including hearing loss.

Your blood pressure reading is made up of two numbers:

• Systolic pressure (the top number) measures the pressure during heartbeats.
• Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) gauges pressure between beats.

Blood pressure categories

• 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
• Severe High Blood Pressure: Exceeding 180/120 mm Hg (immediate medical attention necessary)

The consequences of high blood pressure on ear health

The ears are home to a complex network of little 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.

The stereocilia play a crucial role in transforming sound waves into electrical signals that can be understood by the brain. Sadly, once they are harmed, they do not have the ability to restore themselves. Therefore, hearing loss resulting from vascular damage as a result of high blood pressure is frequently irreversible.

Scientific studies reveal a powerful correlation between elevated blood pressure and the severity of hearing loss. Individuals with healthy blood pressure tend to maintain better hearing over time, while those with high blood pressure are at greater risk for both developing and exacerbating hearing impairment.

Can ear pain be a sign of high blood pressure?

In spite of the vascular damage it causes, high blood pressure rarely appears with noticeable symptoms. It is sometimes known as the “silent killer” because of this. Many individuals wrongly think that feelings such as warm ears or pressure in the ears are signs of high blood pressure. Actually, these symptoms are more likely caused by hormonal changes, stress, or emotional responses.

However, some people with hypertension do report worsened symptoms of tinnitus– a ringing or buzzing in the ears. If you have ringing in your ears or notice any changes in your hearing, it’s important to make an appointment with a specialist who can conduct a detailed assessment to identify the cause.

Controlling blood pressure and safeguarding your hearing

The good news is that blood pressure can typically be controlled through lifestyle modifications and medical care. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the added advantage of protecting your hearing or stopping its decline.

Tips for reducing blood pressure

• Take advantage of a diet that supports 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.
• Get regular exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
• Decrease salt intake: Reduce processed and fast foods, which are typically high in sodium.
• Comply with medication guidelines: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your physician.
• Minimize stress: Incorporate relaxation strategies like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your day-to-day routine.

Regulating blood pressure is essential, but it’s equally important to take preventive steps to safeguard your hearing health.

Protecting your hearing: essential steps

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

• Avoid prolonged exposure to loud noise: Wear ear protection when attending concerts, working with noisy equipment, or in noisy environments.
• Use hearing protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can minimize the risk of sound-induced hearing damage.
• Routine exams with a hearing specialist can significantly improve the effectiveness of treatment and overall ear health by catching any potential issues early on.

Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Be proactiove.

If you have high blood pressure and are noticing problems with your hearing, like having to ask people to repeat themselves often, finding it difficult to hear in loud environments, or needing to boost the volume on your devices, it is important to schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist.

Your hearing health matters. Don’t wait– early treatment can make a substantial difference.
Contact us right away to take the first step toward better hearing.