Did you know that high blood pressure can also increase your chance of developing age-related hearing loss?
Age-related hearing loss usually starts to manifest in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. Your symptoms might progress slowly and be largely invisible, but this type of hearing loss is irreversible. Typically, it’s the result of many years of noise-related damage. So how does hypertension cause hearing loss? The answer is that high blood pressure can cause widespread damage to your blood vessels, including those in your ears.
Blood pressure and why it’s so significant
The blood that runs through your circulatory system can move at different speeds. High blood pressure means that this blood flows more rapidly than normal. Damage to your blood vessels can occur over time because of this. These damaged vessels grow less flexible and more prone to blockages. A blockage can result in 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 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 occurs when your blood pressure is over 180/120. Immediate management is needed when this happens.
How can hypertension cause hearing loss?
The blood vessels inside of 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. Additionally, high blood pressure can negatively affect the stereocilia in your ear (the tiny hairs responsible for picking up vibrations). When these stereocilia get damaged, they don’t heal, so any damage is effectively permanent.
This means that damage to the ears, regardless of the cause, can cause irreversible hearing loss. According to some research, the percentage of individuals who have hearing loss is higher when they have high blood pressure readings. 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 effects of hearing loss.
What does high blood pressure make your ears feel like?
Usually, the symptoms of high blood pressure are barely detectable. So-called “hot ears” aren’t an indication of high blood pressure. 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 issues not associated with blood pressure.
In some instances, high blood pressure can worsen tinnitus symptoms. But how do you know if tinnitus is a result of high blood pressure? It’s impossible to definitively tell without speaking 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 frequently referred to as “the silent killer”.
Usually, it isn’t 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?
Usually, there are many factors that contribute to high blood pressure. As a result, you might have to take several different measures and use a variety of methods to successfully lower your blood pressure. In general, you should work with your primary care doctor to lower your blood pressure. Here’s what that management might entail:
- Get more exercise: Your blood pressure can be managed by getting regular exercise.
- Diet changes: Eating a Mediterranean diet can help you lower blood pressure. Eat more fruits and veggies and avoid things like red meat.
- Take medication as prescribed: In some situations, high blood pressure can’t be managed with diet and exercise alone. Although diet and exercise can be helpful, there are some cases where it will be necessary to take blood pressure medication as prescribed to control hypertension.
- Avoid sodium: Keep the sodium intake to a minimum. Find lower sodium alternatives when possible (or avoid processed foods when possible).
A treatment plan to manage your blood pressure can be developed 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 reducing your blood pressure can help revive your hearing, at least partially. But at least some of the damage will likely be irreversible.
The faster your high blood pressure is corrected, the more likely it will be that your hearing will get better.
Safeguarding your hearing
You can protect your hearing in other ways besides reducing your blood pressure. This could include:
- Wear hearing protection: You can safeguard your hearing by using earplugs, earmuffs, or noise canceling headphones.
- Talk to us: Getting your hearing tested regularly can help you maintain your hearing and detect any hearing loss early.
- Avoiding loud venues and events: Loud noises should be avoided because they can cause damage. If these locations are not entirely avoidable, limit your time in loud environments.
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.