Did you realize that high blood pressure can also increase your chance of developing age-related hearing loss?
Age-related hearing loss normally begins to manifest in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. You probably won’t even notice your progressing hearing loss even though it’s an irreversible condition. Typically, it’s the outcome of many years of noise-related damage. So how is hearing loss a result of hypertension? The blood vessels in your ears and your blood vessels in general can be damaged by high blood pressure.
What is blood pressure (and why does it matter?)
Blood pressure is a measure of how quickly blood moves through your circulatory system. When the blood moves quicker than normal it means you have high blood pressure. Over time, this can result in damage to your blood vessels. These damaged vessels become less elastic and more prone to blockages. A blockage can lead to a stroke or other cardiovascular problems. Healthcare professionals tend to pay very close attention to a patient’s blood pressure as a result.
What is considered high blood pressure?
Here are the general ratings for high blood pressure:
- Normal: 120/8o
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139/80-89
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 140 or Higher/90 or higher
A hypertensive emergency occurs when your blood pressure is over 180/120. This kind of event should be addressed immediately.
How does hypertension cause hearing loss?
Hypertension can cause extensive damage to your blood vessels, including the blood vessels in your ear. As these blood vessels become damaged, it’s likely that the nerves in your ear also suffer lasting damage. Additionally, high blood pressure can negatively impact the stereocilia in your ear (the little hairs responsible for picking up vibrations). These stereocilia aren’t able to self-regeneration, so any damage they sustain is irreversible.
So regardless of the particular cause, irreversible hearing loss can be the result of any damage. According to some studies, the percentage of individuals who have hearing loss is higher when they have high blood pressure readings. Those 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 effects of hearing loss.
What does high blood pressure feel like in your ears?
Usually, the symptoms of high blood pressure are hardly noticeable. So-called “hot ears” aren’t a sign of high blood pressure. “Hot ears” is an affliction where your ears feel hot and become red. Hot ears are normally caused by changes in blood flow due to hormonal, emotional, and other problems not related to blood pressure.
High blood pressure can sometimes worsen symptoms of tinnitus. But how do you know if tinnitus is a result of high blood pressure? It’s impossible to tell for sure without speaking to a doctor or hearing specialist. In general, however, tinnitus isn’t a sign of high blood pressure. High blood pressure is sometimes referred to as “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. It’s a good reason to be certain you don’t miss those regular appointments.
How can you lower your blood pressure?
High blood pressure is typically due to a confluence of numerous different factors. Consequently, you might have to take several different steps and use a variety of methods to successfully lower your blood pressure. In general, you should work with your primary care doctor to lower your blood pressure. That management may look like the following:
- Get more exercise: Your blood pressure can be managed by getting regular exercise.
- Diet changes: Your blood pressure can be reduced by eating a Mediterranean diet. Essentially, avoid foods like red meats and eat more vegetables and fruits.
- Avoid sodium: Keep the sodium intake to a minimum. Find lower sodium alternatives when you can (or avoid processed foods when possible).
- Take medication as prescribed: In some situations, high blood pressure can’t be addressed with diet and exercise alone. In those instances, (and even in situations where lifestyle changes have worked), medication may be necessary to help you manage your hypertension.
A treatment plan to address your blood pressure can be developed by your primary care physician. Can you reverse any hearing loss brought on by high blood pressure? In some cases the answer is yes and in others not so much. You may be able to rejuvenate your hearing to some extent by reducing your blood pressure, according to some evidence. But at least some of the damage will probably be irreversible.
Your hearing will have a better possibility of recuperating if you treat your blood pressure quickly.
Safeguarding your hearing
While lowering your blood pressure can definitely be good for your health (and your hearing), there are other ways to protect your hearing. Here are a number of ways:
- Talk to us: Getting your hearing screened regularly can help you protect your hearing and identify any hearing loss early.
- 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.
- Wear hearing protection: Earmuff, earplugs, and even noise canceling headphones can help you safeguard your hearing.
If you have high blood pressure and are noticing symptoms of hearing loss, make sure to book an appointment with us so we can help you address your hearing loss and safeguard your hearing health.