Did you realize that high blood pressure can also increase your chance of developing age-related hearing loss?
Age-related hearing loss usually begins to manifest in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. You probably won’t even detect your developing hearing loss even though it’s a permanent condition. Years of noise damage is typically the cause. So how does hypertension cause hearing loss? The answer is that high blood pressure can cause extensive damage to your blood vessels, including those in your ears.
Blood pressure and why it’s so important
The blood that runs through your circulatory system can move at different speeds. When the blood flows faster than normal it means you have high blood pressure. Damage to your blood vessels can occur over time as a result. These damaged vessels grow less flexible and more prone to blockages. Cardiovascular issues, like a stroke, can be the consequence of these blockages. That’s one reason why healthcare professionals often pay close attention to your blood pressure.
What constitutes 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 emergency happens when your blood pressure is over 180/120. This kind of event should be dealt with immediately.
How does hypertension cause hearing loss?
The blood vessels in your ear and your whole body can be damaged by hypertension. Normally, the nerves in your ear will also be damaged along with these blood vessels. The tiny hairs in your ears responsible for sensing vibrations, known as stereocilia, can also be adversely impacted by high blood pressure. These stereocilia are not capable of self-regeneration, so any damage they incur is permanent.
So regardless of the particular cause, permanent hearing loss can be the consequence of any damage. Studies found that people with 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 research make clear that keeping your blood pressure under control can help you avoid the impacts 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” aren’t a sign 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 relating to emotions, hormones, and other non-blood pressure-related problems.
In some cases, high blood pressure can worsen tinnitus symptoms. But if your tinnitus was being caused by high blood pressure, how would you know? The only way to tell for sure is to talk to 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”.
Usually, it’s not until you have your vitals taken at your annual exam that high blood pressure is detected. It’s a good reason to be certain you don’t miss those regular appointments.
How is high blood pressure treated?
Typically, there are various factors that contribute to high blood pressure. That’s why lowering blood pressure might call for a variety of strategies. In general, you should talk with your primary care provider to lower your blood pressure. Here’s what that management could entail:
- Take medication as prescribed: In some instances, high blood pressure can’t be addressed with diet and exercise alone. In those cases, (and even in situations where lifestyle changes have helped), medication might be needed to help you control your hypertension.
- Avoid sodium: Keep the salt intake to a minimum. Avoid processed food when you can and find lower salt alternatives if you can.
- Diet changes: Your blood pressure can be lowered by eating a Mediterranean diet. Eat more fruits and vegetables and avoid things like red meat.
- Get more exercise: Your blood pressure can be kept under control by getting regular exercise.
A treatment plan to address your blood pressure can be formulated by your primary care physician. Can hearing loss as a result of high blood pressure be reversed? The answer depends. There is some evidence to suggest that reducing your blood pressure can help revive your hearing, at least in part. But at least some of the damage will probably be permanent.
The sooner your high blood pressure is lowered, the more likely it will be that your hearing will return.
Protecting your hearing
While lowering your blood pressure can definitely be good for your health (and your hearing), there are other ways you can safeguard your hearing. Here are several ways:
- Avoiding loud venues and events: Loud noises should be avoided because they can cause damage. If these settings aren’t entirely avoidable, minimize your time in loud environments.
- Talk to us: Having your hearing screened regularly can help you preserve your hearing and detect any hearing loss early.
- Wear hearing protection: You can safeguard your hearing by utilizing earplugs, earmuffs, or noise canceling headphones.
If you have high blood pressure and are noticing symptoms of hearing loss, be certain to book an appointment with us so we can help you manage your hearing loss and safeguard your hearing health.
