Did you know that high blood pressure can also increase your risk of developing age-related hearing loss?
Age-related hearing loss typically begins to manifest in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. Your symptoms might progress slowly and be largely invisible, but this type of hearing loss is permanent. Typically, it’s the result 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 is it important?)
The blood that flows through your circulatory system can move at various speeds. High blood pressure means that this blood moves more rapidly than normal. Damage to your blood vessels can happen over time because of this. These damaged vessels grow less elastic and more prone to blockages. A blockage can lead to a stroke or other cardiovascular problems. That’s one of the reasons why healthcare professionals often pay close attention to your blood pressure.
So, what is regarded as 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
When your blood pressure goes as high as 180/120, it’s regarded as a hypertensive emergency. Immediate management is needed when this happens.
How does hypertension cause hearing loss?
The blood vessels in your ear and your entire body can be damaged by hypertension. As these blood vessels become damaged, it’s likely that the nerves in your ear also endure lasting damage. Additionally, high blood pressure can negatively affect the stereocilia in your ear (the little hairs responsible for picking up vibrations). When these stereocilia get damaged, they don’t heal, so any damage is effectively irreversible.
So regardless of the particular cause, permanent hearing loss can be the consequence of any damage. According to some research, the percentage of individuals who have hearing loss is higher when they have high blood pressure readings. 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 most cases, high blood pressure is a symptomless condition. So-called “hot ears” are not an indication of high blood pressure. What are hot ears? It’s a symptom where your ears feel warm and grow red. Typically, it’s a sign of changes in blood flow related to emotions, hormones, and other non-blood pressure-related issues.
High blood pressure can sometimes worsen symptoms of tinnitus. But if your tinnitus was being caused by high blood pressure, how could you tell? The only way to know for certain is to speak with your doctor. Tinnitus generally isn’t a symptom of high blood pressure. There’s a reason that high blood pressure is frequently called “the silent killer”.
Most people find out they have high blood pressure when they go in for a yearly exam and have their vitals taken. It’s a good reason to make sure you don’t miss those regular appointments.
How can you lower your blood pressure?
High blood pressure is typically a result of a confluence of numerous different factors. As a result, you might have to take numerous different measures and use a variety of methods to successfully lower your blood pressure. Your primary care doctor should be where you address your high blood pressure. That management may look like the following:
- Take medication as prescribed: In some cases, no amount of diet and exercise can counter or effectively treat high blood pressure. Although diet and exercise can be helpful, there are some situations where it will be necessary to use blood pressure medication as prescribed to manage hypertension.
- Diet changes: Your blood pressure can be lowered by eating a Mediterranean diet. Essentially, avoid foods like red meats and eat more vegetables and fruits.
- Get more exercise: Exercising regularly (or simply getting your body moving on a regular basis) can help lower your overall blood pressure.
- Avoid sodium: Pay attention to the amount of sodium in your food, especially processed foods. Avoid processed food when you can and find lower sodium alternatives if possible.
A treatment plan to manage your blood pressure can be formulated by your primary care doctor. Can you reverse any hearing loss brought on by high blood pressure? The answer depends. There is some evidence to indicate that reducing your blood pressure can help revive your hearing, at least in part. But it’s also likely that at least some of the damage incurred will be irreversible.
Your hearing will have a better chance of recuperating if you address your blood pressure quickly.
Protecting your hearing
You can protect your hearing in other ways besides lowering your blood pressure. Here are several ways:
- Talk to us: Getting your hearing tested regularly can help you maintain your hearing and identify any hearing loss early.
- Avoiding loud venues and events: Try to avoid overly loud noises where you can, as these noises can cause damage to your ears. If you absolutely need to be in a setting with overly loud noise, at least limit your exposure time.
- Wear hearing protection: You can protect your hearing by utilizing earplugs, earmuffs, or noise canceling headphones.
If you have high blood pressure and are showing symptoms of hearing loss, be certain to book an appointment with us so we can help you treat your hearing loss and protect your hearing health.