Did you know that high blood pressure can also increase your chance of developing age-related hearing loss?
From about 40 years old and up, you might begin to detect that your hearing is beginning to go. You most likely won’t even notice your developing hearing loss even though it’s an irreversible condition. Years of noise damage is usually the cause. So how does hypertension lead to hearing loss? The blood vessels inside of your ears and your blood vessels in general can be damaged by high blood pressure.
What is blood pressure (and why does it matter?)
The blood that runs 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 occur over time because of this. These blood vessels that have been harmed lose their elasticity and frequently become blocked. A blockage can lead to a stroke or other cardiovascular problems. That’s one reason why healthcare professionals often pay close attention to your blood pressure.
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
When your blood pressure gets as high as 180/120, it’s considered a hypertensive emergency. This type of event should be dealt with immediately.
How is hearing loss caused by hypertension?
Hypertension can cause widespread damage to your blood vessels, including the blood vessels in your ear. Usually, the nerves in your ear will also be compromised along with these blood vessels. The tiny hairs in your ears responsible for sensing 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 permanent.
This means that damage to the ears, no matter the cause, can result in permanent hearing loss. Research indicates that those who have normal blood pressure readings tend to have a far lower prevalence of hearing loss. 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 prevent the impacts of hearing loss.
What does high blood pressure feel like in your ears?
Usually, the symptoms of high blood pressure are barely detectable. 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. Usually, it’s an indication of changes in blood flow related to emotions, hormones, and other non-blood pressure-associated problems.
In some cases, high blood pressure can exacerbate tinnitus symptoms. But if your tinnitus was a result of high blood pressure, how would you know? The only way to know for sure is to speak with your doctor. 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 isn’t until you get your vitals taken at your annual exam that high blood pressure is discovered. It’s a good reason to make sure you don’t miss those regular appointments.
How can you lower your blood pressure?
Usually, there are many factors that contribute to high blood pressure. That’s why lowering blood pressure might call for a variety of approaches. In general, you should work with your primary care provider to lower your blood pressure. That management may look like the following:
- Diet changes: Your blood pressure can be lowered by eating a Mediterranean diet. Basically, avoid foods like red meats and eat more fruits and vegetables.
- Get more exercise: Exercising regularly (or simply getting your body moving on a regular basis) can help decrease your overall blood pressure.
- Take medication as prescribed: Sometimes, no amount of diet and exercise can prevent or successfully treat high blood pressure. 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: Pay attention to the amount of sodium in your food, especially processed foods. Find lower salt alternatives when you can (or avoid processed foods when possible).
You and your primary care provider will develop a treatment plan to address your blood pressure. Can you reverse any hearing loss caused by high blood pressure? The answer depends. You might be able to restore your hearing to some degree by lowering your blood pressure, according to some evidence. But at least some of the damage will probably be irreversible.
The faster your high blood pressure is corrected, the more likely it will be that your hearing will return.
Safeguarding your hearing
While lowering your blood pressure can certainly be good for your health (and your hearing), there are other ways you can protect your hearing. Here are several ways:
- Wear hearing protection: You can safeguard your hearing by utilizing earplugs, earmuffs, or noise canceling headphones.
- Talk to us: Any existing hearing loss can be preserved and early detection will be possible by getting routine hearing screenings.
- Avoiding loud venues and events: Try to steer clear of overly loud noises when you can, as these noises can cause damage to your ears. If these places are not entirely avoidable, minimize your time in loud environments.
We can help you preserve your hearing into the future, so make an appointment right away.