Many people typically consider heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease as the primary health concerns related to high blood pressure, also called hypertension. But did you realize that unmanaged hypertension can also elevate your danger for hearing loss, especially as you get older?

Presbycusis, also called age-related hearing loss, normally begins to become noticeable in individuals aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It may progress gradually and without noticeable symptoms, but the damage it creates is often permanent. Age-related hearing loss often arises from prolonged exposure to sound, leading to slow deterioration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. An important but frequently neglected factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to destroy the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.

What is blood pressure and why should you care?

Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing through your arteries. Consistently high blood pressure can cause strain to your blood vessels. Over time, this can cause the vessels to stiffen, narrow, or become damaged, raising your risk for severe health problems– including hearing loss.

Your blood pressure reading is composed of two numbers:

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

Blood pressure categories

• Healthy Blood Pressure: Below 120/80 mm Hg
• Elevated: 120-129/<80 mm Hg
• Stage 1 hypertension is characterized as blood pressure readings of 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg.
• Severe Hypertension: Blood Pressure Above 140/90 mm Hg
• Hypertensive Crisis: Over 180/120 mm Hg (emergency care required)

How high blood pressure can affect your ears

The ears are home to a complex 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 translating sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can interpret. Regrettably, 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 frequently irreversible.

Scientific studies show a powerful correlation between elevated blood pressure and the extent of hearing loss. Individuals who have regular blood pressure levels are more likely to maintain their hearing abilities as they get older, whereas those who have high blood pressure are more susceptible to experiencing hearing loss that can intensify over time.

Is ear soreness a sign of high blood pressure?

Although high blood pressure can cause significant blood vessel damage, it often does not exhibit noticeable warning signs. It is commonly called the “silent killer” for this reason. Many people falsly believe that sensations such as warm ears or pressure in the ears are indications of elevated blood pressure. It’s probable that these symptoms are really the result of fluctuations in hormone levels, high levels of stress, or strong emotional reactions.

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

How to regulate blood pressure and safeguard your hearing

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

Strategies for decreasing hypertension naturally

• Embrace a diet that supports heart health by emphasizing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. Consider beginning with the DASH or Mediterranean diet for a healthy foundation.
• Strive to take part in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes every week to maintain regular exercise.
• Minimize salt consumption by restricting processed and fast food eating, as they frequently incorporate high levels of salt.
• Comply with medication instructions: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your physician.
• Reduce anxiety: Make time for calming activities such as mindfulness exercises, gentle stretches, or silent reflection to help you unwind and find balance in your day-to-day life.

While treating hypertension is important, it’s also important to take practical measures to protect your ears.

Protecting your hearing: essential steps

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

• To prevent harm from loud noises, make sure to restrict the time you spend around them. Remember to use hearing protection when you are at a concert, working with loud machinery, or in loud settings.
• Consider using protective gear for your ears, including earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to lower the risks of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
• Regular exams with a hearing specialist can dramatically improve the effectiveness of treatment and overall ear health by recognizing any potential issues early on.

Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Take action

If you have high blood pressure and are experiencing problems with your hearing, like having to ask people to repeat themselves often, finding it difficult to hear in noisy settings, or needing to increase the volume on your devices, it is essential to make an appointment with a hearing specialist.

Your hearing health matters. Don’t wait– early intervention can make a considerable 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.