Are you aware that your chance of developing age-related hearing loss can be increased if you have high blood pressure?
From about 40 years old and up, you may begin to notice that your hearing is beginning to fail. You most likely won’t even detect your developing hearing loss even though it’s a permanent condition. Years of noise damage is usually the cause. So how does hypertension cause hearing loss? 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?)
The blood that flows through your circulatory system can move at various speeds. High blood pressure means that this blood flows more quickly than normal. Damage to your blood vessels can happen over time because of this. These damaged vessels grow less flexible and more prone to blockages. Cardiovascular issues, like a stroke, can be the consequence of these blockages. Healthcare professionals usually pay very close attention to a patient’s blood pressure as a result.
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
A hypertensive emergency happens when your blood pressure goes over 180/120. This kind of event should be dealt with immediately.
How can hypertension cause hearing loss?
The blood vessels inside of your ear and your entire body can be damaged by hypertension. As these blood vessels get damaged, it’s likely that the nerves in your ear also suffer lasting damage. The little hairs in your ears responsible for picking up vibrations, known as stereocilia, can also be negatively impacted by high blood pressure. When these stereocilia become damaged, they don’t regenerate, so any damage is effectively permanent.
So regardless of the particular cause, irreversible hearing loss can be the consequence of any damage. Studies found that individuals who have healthy blood pressure readings tend to have a much lower prevalence of hearing loss. People who reported higher blood pressure were also more likely to have more severe 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 make your ears feel like?
Normally, the symptoms of high blood pressure are hardly detectable. High blood pressure doesn’t cause “hot ears”. What are hot ears? It’s a symptom where your ears feel warm and get red. Usually, it’s an indication of changes in blood flow relating to emotions, hormones, and other non-blood pressure-related issues.
In some circumstances, high blood pressure can worsen tinnitus symptoms. But if your tinnitus was being caused by high blood pressure, how could you tell? It’s impossible to definitively tell without talking to a doctor or hearing specialist. Tinnitus is generally not a symptom of high blood pressure. There’s a reason that high blood pressure is often called “the silent killer”.
Usually, it isn’t until you get your vitals taken at your annual exam that high blood pressure is detected. This is one good reason to be certain that you go to your yearly appointments.
How can you lower your blood pressure?
High blood pressure is normally due to a confluence of numerous different factors. 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 situations, high blood pressure can’t be managed with diet and exercise alone. Even though diet and exercise can be helpful, there are some cases where it will be necessary to take blood pressure medication as prescribed to manage hypertension.
- Diet changes: Your blood pressure can be lowered by eating a Mediterranean diet. Basically, 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. Steer clear of processed food when possible and find lower sodium alternatives if you can.
- Get more exercise: Getting regular exercise (or simply getting your body moving on a regular basis) can help lower your overall blood pressure.
A treatment plan to address your blood pressure can be formulated by your primary care physician. Can you reverse any hearing loss brought on by high blood pressure? The answer depends. You might be able to rejuvenate your hearing to some degree by reducing 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 lowered, the more likely it will be that your hearing will return.
Protecting your hearing
You can safeguard your hearing in other ways besides lowering your blood pressure. This could include:
- Wear hearing protection: Earmuff, earplugs, and even noise canceling headphones can help you protect your hearing.
- Talk to us: Any existing hearing loss can be maintained and early detection will be possible by getting regular hearing screenings.
- Avoiding loud venues and events: Try to avoid overly loud noises where you can, as these noises can result in damage to your ears. If you really need to be in a setting with overly loud noise, at least limit your exposure time.
We can help you maintain your hearing into the future, so book an appointment right away.