When most individuals think of the risks linked to high blood pressure– also called hypertension– they often focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. But did you know that unmanaged hypertension can also increase your risk for hearing loss, especially as you age?

Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, generally starts to show signs in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It progresses slowly with few noticeable signs, yet the damage it inflicts can be lasting and permanent. In many instances, this kind of hearing loss stems from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. One significant but frequently overlooked contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can damage the delicate blood vessels in the inner ear.

What is blood pressure and why should you care?

Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing through your arteries. Consistently high blood pressure can cause strain to your blood vessels. Extended exposure to this condition can result in arterial deterioration, causing the blood vessels to become rigid, constricted, or compromised, which in turn elevates the risk of developing severe health issues, including impaired hearing.

Your blood pressure reading is composed of two numbers:

• The systolic reading, which is the higher number, signifies the force of blood flow when the heart contracts.
• Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) gauges pressure between beats.

Categories of blood pressure

• Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
• Slightly High: Blood Pressure Ranges from 120-129 over Less Than 80
• Stage 1 hypertension is characterized as blood pressure readings of 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg.
• Stage 2 Hypertension: 140+/ 90+ mm Hg
• Severe High Blood Pressure: Exceeding 180/120 mm Hg (immediate medical attention necessary)

The consequences of high blood pressure on ear health

The ears are home to an intricate network of little blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the auditory system. When high blood pressure impacts these vessels, the structures in the ear, especially the cochlea and small sensory hair cells called stereocilia, might suffer harm.

These stereocilia are responsible for translating sound vibrations into nerve signals your brain can interpret. Sadly, once they are harmed, they do not have the ability to repair themselves. Therefore, hearing impairment resulting from vascular damage as a result of high blood pressure is frequently permanent.

High blood pressure has been discovered to be closely linked to the level of hearing loss according to scientific research. Individuals who have regular blood pressure levels are more likely to preserve their hearing abilities as they get older, whereas those who have high blood pressure are more prone to experiencing hearing loss that can intensify over time.

Is ear discomfort a symptom of high blood pressure?

Despite the vascular damage it causes, high blood pressure rarely presents with noticeable symptoms. It is sometimes referred to as the “silent killer” as a result of this. Many individuals wrongly believe that sensations like warm ears or pressure in the ears are signs of elevated blood pressure. It’s likely that these symptoms are actually the outcome of fluctuations in hormone levels, high levels of stress, or strong emotional responses.

However, some people with hypertension do experience worsened symptoms of tinnitus– a ringing or buzzing in the ears. If you experience persistent tinnitus or suspect hearing changes, it’s essential to talk to a hearing care professional for a complete assessment.

Managing blood pressure and safeguarding your hearing

The good news is that blood pressure can often be controlled through lifestyle modifications and medical care. Lowering your blood pressure might even help preserve your hearing or stop further degeneration.

Strategies for reducing hypertension naturally

• Embrace a diet that supports heart health by focusing on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is a great place to start.
• Strive to engage in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes each week to maintain regular exercise.
• Cut down on salt consumption by restricting processed and fast food intake, as they frequently contain high levels of sodium.
• Follow medication instructions: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your physician.
• Decrease anxiety: Make time for calming activities including mindfulness exercises, mild stretches, or quiet reflection to help you unwind and find balance in your daily life.

While treating hypertension is important, it’s also crucial to take proactive steps to safeguard your hearing.

Steps to safeguard your hearing health

Along with controlling your blood pressure, the following practices can help you safeguard your hearing:

• Avoid extended exposure to loud noise: Use ear protection when attending concerts, working with loud equipment, or in loud settings.
• Consider using protective gear for your ears, including earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to reduce the risks of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
• Routine check-ups with a hearing specialist can considerably improve the effectiveness of treatment and overall ear health by catching any potential issues early on.

Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Be proactiove.

If you have been diagnosed with hypertension and are experiencing signs of hearing problems– including regularly asking others to repeat themselves, struggling with conversations in loud places, or cranking up the volume on devices– it’s time to schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist.

Your hearing health matters. Don’t wait– early treatment can make a considerable difference.
Reach out to us today to take the first step toward better hearing.

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.