Did you realize that high blood pressure can also increase your chance of developing age-related hearing loss?
Age-related hearing loss typically starts to manifest in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. Your symptoms might develop gradually and be mostly invisible, but this kind of hearing loss is permanent. Years of noise damage is usually the cause. So how is hearing loss a result of hypertension? The answer is that high blood pressure can lead to widespread damage to your blood vessels, including those in your ears.
What is blood pressure (and why is it important?)
The blood that flows through your circulatory system can move at various speeds. When the blood flows quicker than normal it means you have high blood pressure. Over time, this can create damage to your blood vessels. These damaged vessels grow less elastic and more prone to blockages. Cardiovascular problems, such as a stroke, can be the result of these blockages. That’s one of the reasons why healthcare professionals frequently pay close attention to your blood pressure.
So, what is considered to be high blood pressure?
The general ratings for blood pressure include the following:
- 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 goes over 180/120. This type of event should be addressed immediately.
How is hearing loss caused by hypertension?
The blood vessels in your ear and your whole body can be damaged by hypertension. Usually, the nerves in your ear will also be damaged along with these blood vessels. Likewise, high blood pressure can negatively affect the stereocilia in your ear (the little hairs responsible for picking up vibrations). These stereocilia are not able to self-regeneration, so any damage they sustain is irreversible.
This means that damage to the ears, regardless of the cause, can contribute to irreversible hearing loss. According to some research, the percentage of individuals who have hearing loss is higher when they have high blood pressure readings. Those who reported higher blood pressure were also more likely to have more severe hearing loss. 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 feel like in your ears?
In most cases, high blood pressure is a symptomless condition. So-called “hot ears” aren’t a sign of high blood pressure. What are hot ears? It’s a symptom in which your ears feel warm and get red. Normally, it’s a sign of changes in blood flow relating to emotions, hormones, and other non-blood pressure-associated problems.
High blood pressure can sometimes exacerbate tinnitus symptoms. But if your tinnitus was a result of high blood pressure, how would you know? The only way to know for certain is to talk to your doctor. In general, however, tinnitus isn’t a sign of high blood pressure. High blood pressure is sometimes called “the silent killer” for a good reason.
Typically, it isn’t until you have 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?
Normally, there are a number of factors that contribute to high blood pressure. That’s why lowering blood pressure may require a variety of strategies. In general, you should work with your primary care doctor to lower your blood pressure. Here’s what that management could entail:
- Diet changes: Your blood pressure can be lowered by eating a Mediterranean diet. Eat more fruits and veggies and abstain from things like red meat.
- Get more exercise: Getting regular exercise (or simply getting your body moving on a regular basis) can help reduce your overall blood pressure.
- Take medication as prescribed: In some cases, no amount of diet and exercise can counter or effectively manage high blood pressure. In those cases, (and even in cases where lifestyle changes have worked), medication may be necessary to help you control your hypertension.
- Avoid sodium: Take note of the amount of salt in your food, particularly processed foods. Find lower salt alternatives when possible (or avoid processed foods when you can).
A treatment plan to manage your blood pressure can be developed by your primary care physician. Can you reverse any hearing loss brought on by high blood pressure? In some circumstances the answer is yes and in others not so much. There is some evidence to indicate that reducing your blood pressure can help restore your hearing, at least in part. But it’s also likely that at least some of the damage incurred will be irreversible.
Your hearing will have a better chance of recuperating if you address your blood pressure promptly.
Safeguarding your hearing
While lowering your blood pressure can undoubtedly be good for your health (and your hearing), there are other ways you can safeguard your hearing. This could include:
- Talk to us: Any existing hearing loss can be preserved and early detection will be possible by getting routine hearing screenings.
- Wear hearing protection: Earmuff, earplugs, and even noise canceling headphones can help you protect your hearing.
- Avoiding loud venues and events: Try to steer clear of overly loud noises where you can, as these noises can result in damage to your ears. If you absolutely need to be in a setting with overly loud noise, at least minimize your exposure time.
If you have high blood pressure and are noticing symptoms of hearing loss, make sure to make an appointment with us so we can help you manage your hearing loss and protect your hearing health.