Did you know that high blood pressure can also increase your risk of developing age-related hearing loss?
From around 40 years old and up, you may start to notice that your hearing is starting to fail. You most likely won’t even detect your progressing hearing loss even though it’s a permanent condition. Years of noise damage is typically 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.
What is blood pressure (and why does it matter?)
Blood pressure is a measure of how rapidly blood runs through your circulatory system. High blood pressure means that this blood flows more quickly than normal. Over time, this can result in damage to your blood vessels. These blood vessels that have been harmed lose their elasticity and frequently become blocked. A blockage can contribute to a stroke or other cardiovascular problems. Healthcare professionals usually pay very close attention to a patient’s blood pressure for this reason.
What is considered high blood pressure?
Here are the basic 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 crisis happens when your blood pressure is over 180/120. This kind of event should be dealt with immediately.
How is hearing loss caused by hypertension?
Hypertension can cause extensive damage to your blood vessels, including the blood vessels inside of 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 tiny hairs responsible for picking up vibrations). These stereocilia aren’t able to self-regeneration, so any damage they incur is irreversible.
This means that damage to the ears, no matter the cause, can contribute to permanent hearing loss. According to some research, the percentage of people who have hearing loss is higher when they have high blood pressure readings. Individuals 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 detectable. So-called “hot ears” aren’t an indication of high blood pressure. What are hot ears? It’s a symptom where your ears feel warm and get red. Hot ears are usually caused by changes in blood flow due to hormonal, emotional, and other issues not associated with blood pressure.
In some instances, high blood pressure can worsen tinnitus symptoms. But how can you tell 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.
The majority of individuals find out they have high blood pressure when they go in for an annual exam and have their vitals taken. This is one good reason to make sure you go to your yearly appointments.
How can you lower your blood pressure?
Typically, there are a number of factors that contribute to high blood pressure. That’s why lowering blood pressure might call for a variety of approaches. Your primary care doctor should be where you address your high blood pressure. Here’s what that management might entail:
- Take medication as prescribed: In some instances, high blood pressure can’t be managed with diet and exercise alone. Even though diet and exercise can be helpful, there are some situations where it will be necessary to take blood pressure medication as prescribed to control hypertension.
- Diet changes: Eating a Mediterranean diet can help you lower blood pressure. Essentially, stay away from foods like red meats and eat more vegetables and fruits.
- Avoid sodium: Take note of the amount of salt in your food, especially processed foods. Avoid processed food when possible and find lower salt alternatives if possible.
- Get more exercise: Your blood pressure can be managed by exercising regularly.
A treatment plan to address your blood pressure can be formulated by your primary care doctor. Can you reverse any hearing loss caused by high blood pressure? The answer depends. You might be able to restore your hearing to some degree by lowering your blood pressure, according to some evidence. But it’s also likely that at least some of the harm incurred will be permanent.
The faster your high blood pressure is reversed, the more likely it will be that your hearing will return.
Protecting your hearing
You can safeguard your hearing in other ways besides reducing your blood pressure. Here are a few ways:
- Wear hearing protection: Earmuff, earplugs, and even noise canceling headphones can help you safeguard your hearing.
- Avoiding loud venues and events: Try to steer clear of overly loud noises where you can, as these noises can cause damage to your ears. If these settings aren’t completely avoidable, minimize your time in noisy environments.
- Talk to us: Any existing hearing loss can be maintained and early detection will be possible by getting regular hearing screenings.
We can help you protect your hearing into the future, so book an appointment right away.