Are you aware that your chance of developing age-related hearing loss can be increased if you have high blood pressure?
From around 40 years old and up, you may begin to notice that your hearing is starting to fail. Your symptoms could progress gradually and be largely invisible, but this kind of hearing loss is irreversible. Years of noise damage is usually the cause. So how is hearing loss a result of hypertension? 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 significant
The blood that flows through your circulatory system can move at different speeds. When the blood moves quicker than normal it means you have high blood pressure. Damage to your blood vessels can happen over time because of this. These blood vessels that have been damaged lose their flexibility and frequently become blocked. A blockage can lead to a stroke or other cardiovascular problems. Healthcare professionals tend to pay very close attention to a patient’s blood pressure for this reason.
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 crisis happens when your blood pressure goes over 180/120. This type of event should be treated immediately.
How is hearing loss caused by hypertension?
The blood vessels in your ear and your entire body can be damaged by hypertension. Normally, the nerves in your ear will also be compromised along with these blood vessels. The little hairs in your ears responsible for picking up vibrations, called stereocilia, can also be adversely impacted by high blood pressure. When these stereocilia become damaged, they don’t heal, so any damage is effectively irreversible.
So regardless of the specific cause, permanent hearing loss can be the result of any damage. According to some research, the percentage of people who have hearing loss is higher when they have high blood pressure readings. People 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 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” aren’t a sign of high blood pressure. “Hot ears” is an affliction where your ears feel hot and get red. Hot ears are normally caused by changes in blood flow due to hormonal, emotional, and other problems not related to blood pressure.
High blood pressure can sometimes exacerbate 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. Tinnitus is generally not a symptom of high blood pressure. High blood pressure is sometimes referred to as “the silent killer” for a good reason.
Usually, it’s not until you have your vitals taken at your annual exam that high blood pressure is discovered. This is one good reason to be certain that you go to your yearly appointments.
How can you lower your blood pressure?
Usually, there are various factors that contribute to high blood pressure. That’s why lowering blood pressure may call for a variety of approaches. In general, you should work with your primary care provider to lower your blood pressure. Here’s what that management might entail:
- Diet changes: Your blood pressure can be lowered by eating a Mediterranean diet. Essentially, stay away from foods like red meats and eat more fruits and vegetables.
- Get more exercise: Getting regular exercise (or simply moving around on a regular basis) can help decrease your overall blood pressure.
- Take medication as prescribed: In some instances, high blood pressure can’t be addressed with diet and exercise alone. Although 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.
- Avoid sodium: Keep your eye on the amount of sodium in your food, especially processed foods. Find lower salt alternatives when you can (or avoid processed foods when you can).
A treatment plan to manage your blood pressure can be developed by your primary care doctor. Can hearing loss as a result of high blood pressure be reversed? In some cases the answer is yes and in others not so much. 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 permanent.
Your hearing will have a better chance of recuperating if you treat your blood pressure quickly.
How to safeguard your hearing
While lowering your blood pressure can certainly be good for your health (and your hearing), there are other ways to protect your hearing. Here are several ways:
- Talk to us: Any existing hearing loss can be protected and early detection will be possible by getting routine hearing screenings.
- Avoiding loud venues and events: Try to steer clear of overly loud noises where you can, as these noises can lead to damage to your ears. If these settings are not completely avoidable, minimize your time in noisy environments.
- Wear hearing protection: Earmuff, earplugs, and even noise canceling headphones can help you safeguard your hearing.
We can help you maintain your hearing into the future, so book an appointment as soon as possible.