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 might start to detect that your hearing is beginning to fail. Your symptoms may advance gradually and be mostly invisible, but this kind of hearing loss is permanent. Usually, it’s the consequence of many years of noise-related damage. So how is hearing loss caused by hypertension? The blood vessels in your ears and your blood vessels in general can be damaged by high blood pressure.
Blood pressure and why it’s so significant
Blood pressure is a measure of how rapidly blood flows through your circulatory system. When the blood moves faster than normal it means you have high blood pressure. Over time, this can cause damage to your blood vessels. These damaged vessels grow less elastic and more prone to blockages. A blockage can contribute to a stroke or other cardiovascular issues. That’s one reason why healthcare professionals frequently 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
A hypertensive crisis happens when your blood pressure goes over 180/120. Immediate management is needed when this occurs.
How does hypertension cause hearing loss?
Hypertension can cause widespread damage to your blood vessels, including the blood vessels in your ear. As these blood vessels become damaged, it’s likely that the nerves in your ear also suffer lasting damage. Likewise, high blood pressure can negatively impact the stereocilia in your ear (the tiny hairs responsible for sensing vibrations). When these stereocilia get damaged, they don’t heal, so any damage is effectively irreversible.
So regardless of the specific cause, irreversible hearing loss can be the result of any damage. Studies found that those with normal blood pressure readings tend to have a much lower prevalence of hearing loss. 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 avoid the effects of hearing loss.
What does high blood pressure make your ears feel like?
In most cases, high blood pressure is a symptomless condition. High blood pressure isn’t the cause of “hot ears”. What are hot ears? It’s a symptom where your ears feel warm and grow red. Hot ears are usually caused by changes in blood flow due to hormonal, emotional, and other problems not related to blood pressure.
High blood pressure can sometimes worsen tinnitus symptoms. But if your tinnitus was a result of high blood pressure, how could you tell? It’s impossible to definitively tell without talking to a doctor or hearing specialist. In general, however, tinnitus isn’t a symptom of high blood pressure. High blood pressure is sometimes referred to as “the silent killer” for a good reason.
Typically, 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 make sure you go to your yearly appointments.
How can you lower your blood pressure?
High blood pressure is normally due to a confluence of many different factors. That’s why lowering blood pressure might require a variety of strategies. Your primary care physician should be where you address your high blood pressure. Here’s what that management might entail:
- Get more exercise: Exercising regularly (or simply getting your body moving on a regular basis) can help reduce your overall blood pressure.
- Diet changes: Eating a Mediterranean diet can help you lower blood pressure. Basically, avoid foods like red meats and eat more vegetables and fruits.
- Avoid sodium: Keep the salt intake to a minimum. Steer clear of processed food when you can and find lower sodium alternatives if possible.
- Take medication as prescribed: Sometimes, no amount of diet and exercise can counter or successfully treat high blood pressure. In those cases, (and even in situations where lifestyle changes have helped), medication may be needed to help you manage your hypertension.
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 suggest that lowering your blood pressure can help restore 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 promptly.
How to safeguard 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. This could include:
- Wear hearing protection: Earmuff, earplugs, and even noise canceling headphones can help you safeguard your hearing.
- Talk to us: Any existing hearing loss can be preserved and early detection will be possible by getting regular hearing screenings.
- Avoiding loud venues and events: Loud sounds should be avoided because they can cause damage. If you absolutely need to be in a setting with overly loud noise, at least limit your exposure time.
If you have high blood pressure and are noticing symptoms of hearing loss, be certain to make an appointment with us so we can help you treat your hearing loss and protect your hearing health.
