Did you know that high blood pressure can also increase your risk of developing age-related hearing loss?
Age-related hearing loss typically starts 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. Typically, it’s the outcome of many years of noise-related damage. So how is hearing loss caused by hypertension? The blood vessels inside of your ears and your blood vessels in general can be damaged by high blood pressure.
Blood pressure and why it’s so important
Blood pressure is a measure of how rapidly blood moves through your circulatory system. High blood pressure means that this blood flows more quickly than normal. Damage to your blood vessels can occur over time as a result. These blood vessels that have been harmed lose their elasticity and often become blocked. A blockage can lead to a stroke or other cardiovascular issues. Healthcare professionals have a tendency to pay very close attention to a patient’s blood pressure for this reason.
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 crisis happens when your blood pressure goes over 180/120. This kind of event should be addressed immediately.
How does hypertension cause hearing loss?
The blood vessels in your ear and your whole 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 tiny 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 heal, so any damage is effectively irreversible.
So regardless of the particular 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 study make clear that keeping your blood pressure under control can help you avoid the effects of hearing loss.
What does high blood pressure feel like in your ears?
In the vast majority of cases, high blood pressure is a symptomless condition. So-called “hot ears” are not an indication of high blood pressure. “Hot ears” is a condition where your ears feel hot and get red. Hot ears are normally caused by changes in blood flow due to hormonal, emotional, and other issues not associated with blood pressure.
High blood pressure can sometimes worsen tinnitus symptoms. But if your tinnitus was a result of high blood pressure, how would you know? The only way to tell for certain is to speak with your doctor. In general, however, tinnitus is not a sign of high blood pressure. There’s a reason that high blood pressure is frequently referred to as “the silent killer”.
Most people notice high blood pressure when they go in for a yearly exam and have their vitals taken. It’s a good reason to be certain you don’t miss those regular appointments.
How can you lower your blood pressure?
High blood pressure is usually caused by a confluence of various different factors. That’s why lowering blood pressure may call for a variety of strategies. Your primary care doctor should be where you address your high blood pressure. That management may look like the following:
- Diet changes: Eating a Mediterranean diet can help you reduce blood pressure. Basically, stay away from foods like red meats and eat more vegetables and fruits.
- Avoid sodium: Keep the salt intake to a minimum. Avoid processed food when you can and find lower salt alternatives if you can.
- Take medication as prescribed: In some cases, no amount of diet and exercise can counter or successfully manage high blood pressure. In those cases, (and even in situations where lifestyle changes have worked), medication may be needed to help you manage your hypertension.
- Get more exercise: Getting regular exercise (or simply getting your body moving on a regular basis) can help reduce your overall blood pressure.
A treatment plan to manage 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 lowering your blood pressure can help restore your hearing, at least partially. But it’s also likely that at least some of the damage incurred will be permanent.
The faster your high blood pressure is corrected, the more likely it will be that your hearing will return.
Protecting your hearing
While lowering your blood pressure can undoubtedly be good for your health (and your hearing), there are other ways to protect your hearing. Here are a few ways:
- Talk to us: Getting your hearing screened regularly can help you protect your hearing and detect any hearing loss early.
- 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 you really need to be in a setting with overly loud noise, at least limit your exposure time.
- Wear hearing protection: Earmuff, earplugs, and even noise canceling headphones can help you safeguard your hearing.
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 address your hearing loss and protect your hearing health.
