Were you aware that your risk of developing age-related hearing loss can be increased if you have high blood pressure?
Age-related hearing loss usually starts to manifest in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. You probably won’t even detect your developing hearing loss even though it’s an irreversible condition. Usually, it’s the consequence of many years of noise-related damage. So how does hypertension lead to 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 flows through your circulatory system can move at various speeds. High blood pressure means that this blood moves more quickly than normal. Over time, this can result in damage to your blood vessels. These damaged vessels grow less flexible and more prone to blockages. Cardiovascular problems, like a stroke, can be the result of these blockages. That’s one reason why healthcare professionals often 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
When your blood pressure goes as high as 180/120, it’s considered a hypertensive emergency. This kind of event should be treated immediately.
How is hearing loss caused by hypertension?
The blood vessels inside of your ear and your entire body can be damaged by hypertension. As these blood vessels get damaged, it’s likely that the nerves in your ear also endure lasting damage. The tiny hairs in your ears responsible for picking up vibrations, called stereocilia, can also be negatively impacted by high blood pressure. These stereocilia aren’t capable of self-regeneration, so any damage they incur is permanent.
This means that damage to the ears, regardless of the cause, can contribute to permanent 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 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 prevent the impacts 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 an indication of high blood pressure. What are hot ears? It’s a symptom where your ears feel warm and get red. Usually, it’s an indication of changes in blood flow relating to emotions, hormones, and other non-blood pressure-related problems.
In some cases, high blood pressure can worsen 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. In general, however, tinnitus isn’t a symptom of high blood pressure. There’s a reason that high blood pressure is frequently called “the silent killer”.
Most people find out they have high blood pressure when they go in for an annual exam and have their vitals taken. It’s a good reason to make sure you don’t miss those regular appointments.
How is high blood pressure treated?
Normally, there are various factors that contribute to high blood pressure. As a result, you might have to take several different steps and use a variety of methods to effectively lower your blood pressure. Your primary care doctor should be where you address your high blood pressure. Here’s what that management could entail:
- Diet changes: Eating a Mediterranean diet can help you reduce blood pressure. Essentially, stay away from foods like red meats and eat more fruits and vegetables.
- Avoid sodium: Keep your eye on the amount of sodium in your food, particularly processed foods. Steer clear of processed food when possible and find lower sodium alternatives if possible.
- Get more exercise: Getting regular exercise (or simply moving around on a regular basis) can help lower your overall blood pressure.
- 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 situations where lifestyle changes have helped), medication might be necessary to help you manage your hypertension.
A treatment plan to manage your blood pressure can be formulated 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 decreasing your blood pressure can help revive your hearing, at least in part. But it’s also likely that at least some of the damage incurred will be permanent.
The faster your high blood pressure is corrected, the more likely it will be that your hearing will return.
Safeguarding your hearing
You can protect your hearing in other ways besides reducing your blood pressure. This could include:
- Talk to us: Getting your hearing tested regularly can help you protect your hearing and identify any hearing loss early.
- Avoiding loud venues and events: Try to steer clear of overly loud noises when you can, as these noises can result in damage to your ears. If you really need to be in an environment with overly loud noise, at least limit your exposure time.
- Wear hearing protection: Earmuff, earplugs, and even noise canceling headphones can help you safeguard your hearing.
If you have high blood pressure and are showing symptoms of hearing loss, be certain to make an appointment with us so we can help you address your hearing loss and safeguard your hearing health.