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 may begin to detect that your hearing is beginning to go. You probably won’t even notice 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 a result of hypertension? 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?)
Blood pressure is a measure of how rapidly blood runs through your circulatory system. When the blood flows quicker than normal it means you have high blood pressure. Damage to your blood vessels can happen over time as a result. These blood vessels that have been harmed lose their elasticity and often become blocked. Cardiovascular problems, including a stroke, can be the consequence of these blockages. That’s one of the reasons why healthcare professionals often pay close attention to your blood pressure.
So, what is considered to be 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 occurs when your blood pressure goes over 180/120. Immediate management is needed when this occurs.
How is hearing loss caused by hypertension?
The blood vessels in your ear and your entire body can be damaged by hypertension. As these blood vessels become damaged, it’s likely that the nerves in your ear also endure lasting damage. The little hairs in your ears responsible for picking up vibrations, known as stereocilia, can also be negatively impacted by high blood pressure. These stereocilia aren’t able to self-regeneration, so any damage they sustain is permanent.
This means that damage to the ears, no matter the cause, can cause permanent hearing loss. According to some studies, 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 impacts of hearing loss, in other words, can be reduced by keeping blood pressure under control.
What does high blood pressure feel like in your ears?
Usually, the symptoms of high blood pressure are barely noticeable. So-called “hot ears” are not an indication of high blood pressure. “Hot ears” is an affliction where your ears feel hot and become red. Hot ears are usually caused by changes in blood flow due to hormonal, emotional, and other issues not related to blood pressure.
In some cases, high blood pressure can worsen tinnitus symptoms. But how can you tell if tinnitus is from high blood pressure? It’s impossible to definitively tell without speaking to a doctor or hearing specialist. In general, however, tinnitus isn’t a sign of high blood pressure. High blood pressure is sometimes referred to as “the silent killer” for a good reason.
Most people notice high blood pressure when they go in for a yearly exam and get their vitals taken. It’s a good reason to be certain you don’t miss those regular appointments.
How is high blood pressure managed?
Normally, there are various factors that contribute to high blood pressure. Consequently, you may have to take numerous different measures and use a variety of approaches to successfully lower your blood pressure. Your primary care doctor should be where you address your high blood pressure. That management might look like the following:
- Take medication as prescribed: In some cases, no amount of diet and exercise can prevent or effectively treat high blood pressure. In those instances, (and even in cases where lifestyle changes have worked), medication may be needed to help you manage your hypertension.
- Avoid sodium: Take note of the amount of sodium in your food, especially processed foods. Find lower sodium alternatives when you can (or avoid processed foods when possible).
- Diet changes: Your blood pressure can be reduced by eating a Mediterranean diet. Eat more fruits and vegetables and abstain from things like red meat.
- Get more exercise: Getting regular exercise (or simply moving around on a regular basis) can help decrease your overall blood pressure.
A treatment plan to address your blood pressure can be developed by your primary care doctor. Can you reverse any hearing loss caused by high blood pressure? The answer depends. There is some evidence to indicate that lowering your blood pressure can help restore your hearing, at least partially. But at least some of the damage will probably be permanent.
The sooner your high blood pressure is lowered, the more likely it will be that your hearing will return.
Safeguarding your hearing
You can safeguard your hearing in other ways besides reducing your blood pressure. Here are several ways:
- Avoiding loud venues and events: Try to steer clear of overly loud noises when you can, as these noises can lead to damage to your ears. If these locations aren’t completely avoidable, limit your time in noisy environments.
- Wear hearing protection: You can safeguard your hearing by utilizing earplugs, earmuffs, or noise canceling headphones.
- Talk to us: Having your hearing tested regularly can help you protect your hearing and identify any hearing loss early.
If you have high blood pressure and are noticing symptoms of hearing loss, make sure to book an appointment with us so we can help you treat your hearing loss and safeguard your hearing health.
