Were you aware that your chance of developing age-related hearing loss can be increased if you have high blood pressure?
Age-related hearing loss typically begins to manifest in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. You most likely won’t even notice your progressing hearing loss even though it’s an irreversible condition. Typically, it’s the consequence of many years of noise-related damage. So how does hypertension lead to hearing loss? The answer is that high blood pressure can lead to widespread damage to your blood vessels, including those in your ears.
Blood pressure and why it’s so important
The blood that flows through your circulatory system can move at various speeds. When the blood moves quicker than normal it means you have high blood pressure. Damage to your blood vessels can happen over time as a result. These blood vessels that have been damaged lose their flexibility and frequently become blocked. A blockage can contribute to a stroke or other cardiovascular issues. Healthcare professionals tend to pay very close attention to a patient’s blood pressure because of this.
What is considered 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 emergency happens when your blood pressure goes over 180/120. Immediate management is needed when this occurs.
How can hypertension cause hearing loss?
Hypertension can cause extensive damage to your blood vessels, including the blood vessels in your ear. Normally, the nerves in your ear will also be compromised along with these blood vessels. The little hairs in your ears responsible for sensing vibrations, known as stereocilia, can also be adversely impacted by high blood pressure. When these stereocilia get damaged, they don’t heal, so any damage is effectively irreversible.
So regardless of the specific cause, irreversible hearing loss can be the result of any damage. Studies found that people who have healthy blood pressure readings tend to have a much lower prevalence of hearing loss. Individuals who have hearing loss are more likely to have higher blood pressure. The findings of the study 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?
In the vast majority of cases, high blood pressure is a symptomless condition. So-called “hot ears” aren’t a sign of high blood pressure. What are hot ears? It’s a symptom where your ears feel warm and grow red. Usually, it’s an indication of changes in blood flow related to emotions, hormones, and other non-blood pressure-associated problems.
High blood pressure can sometimes worsen tinnitus symptoms. But if your tinnitus was a result of high blood pressure, how could you tell? The only way to know for certain is to talk to your doctor. In general, however, tinnitus isn’t a sign of high blood pressure. There’s a reason that high blood pressure is often called “the silent killer”.
The majority of people find out they have high blood pressure when they go in for an annual exam and have their vitals taken. It’s a good reason to be certain you don’t miss those regular appointments.
How is high blood pressure treated?
Normally, there are a number of factors that contribute to high blood pressure. That’s why lowering blood pressure may call for a variety of strategies. In general, you should talk with your primary care provider to lower your blood pressure. That management might look like the following:
- Avoid sodium: Pay attention to the amount of sodium in your food, particularly processed foods. Avoid processed food when you can and find lower sodium alternatives if possible.
- Diet changes: Eating a Mediterranean diet can help you lower blood pressure. Basically, stay away from foods like red meats and eat more fruits and vegetables.
- Get more exercise: Exercising regularly (or simply getting your body moving on a regular basis) can help reduce your overall blood pressure.
- Take medication as prescribed: In some cases, high blood pressure can’t be addressed with diet and exercise alone. Even though diet and exercise can be helpful, there are some cases where it will be necessary to use blood pressure medication as prescribed to control hypertension.
You and your doctor will formulate 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 partially. But it’s also likely that at least some of the harm incurred will be permanent.
Your hearing will have a better possibility of recovering if you address your blood pressure quickly.
How to safeguard your hearing
While lowering your blood pressure can undoubtedly be good for your health (and your hearing), there are other ways to safeguard your hearing. Here are a number of ways:
- 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 minimize your exposure time.
- Talk to us: Any existing hearing loss can be maintained and early detection will be possible by getting regular hearing screenings.
- Wear hearing protection: Earmuff, earplugs, and even noise canceling headphones can help you protect your hearing.
We can help you preserve your hearing into the future, so book an appointment right away.