Did you know that high blood pressure can also increase your risk of developing age-related hearing loss?
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 result of many years of noise-related damage. So how is hearing loss a result of hypertension? The blood vessels in your ears and your blood vessels in general can be damaged by high blood pressure.
What is blood pressure (and why is it important?)
The blood that flows through your circulatory system can move at different speeds. When the blood flows faster 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 often become blocked. A blockage can result in a stroke or other cardiovascular problems. That’s one reason why healthcare professionals frequently pay close attention to your blood pressure.
What is considered 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 crisis occurs when your blood pressure is over 180/120. This kind of event should be addressed immediately.
How can hypertension cause hearing loss?
The blood vessels in your ear and your entire body can be damaged by hypertension. Typically, the nerves in your ear will also be damaged along with these blood vessels. Likewise, high blood pressure can negatively impact the stereocilia in your ear (the tiny hairs responsible for picking up vibrations). These stereocilia are not able to self-regeneration, so any damage they sustain is permanent.
So regardless of the particular cause, irreversible hearing loss can be the consequence of any damage. Studies found that people with normal blood pressure readings tend to have a far lower prevalence of hearing loss. Individuals who have hearing loss are more likely to have higher blood pressure. The effects of hearing loss, in other words, can be decreased by keeping blood pressure under control.
What does high blood pressure make your ears feel like?
In the vast majority of cases, high blood pressure is a symptomless condition. So-called “hot ears” aren’t an indication of high blood pressure. “Hot ears” is a condition where your ears feel hot and get red. Normally, it’s a sign of changes in blood flow related to emotions, hormones, and other non-blood pressure-related problems.
In some circumstances, high blood pressure can worsen tinnitus symptoms. But how can you tell if tinnitus is a result of high blood pressure? The only way to tell for sure is to speak with your doctor. In general, however, tinnitus isn’t a sign of high blood pressure. There’s a reason that high blood pressure is frequently called “the silent killer”.
Usually, it isn’t until you have your vitals taken at your annual exam that high blood pressure is detected. It’s a good reason to make sure you don’t miss those regular appointments.
How is high blood pressure treated?
High blood pressure is usually due to a confluence of various different factors. Consequently, you may have to take several different steps and use a variety of approaches to successfully lower your blood pressure. In general, you should talk with your primary care provider to lower your blood pressure. Here’s what that management might entail:
- Diet changes: Eating a Mediterranean diet can help you reduce blood pressure. Eat more fruits and vegetables and avoid things like red meat.
- Avoid sodium: Pay attention to the amount of salt in your food, especially processed foods. Find lower salt alternatives when you can (or stay away from processed foods when you can).
- Take medication as prescribed: In some cases, no amount of diet and exercise can counter or effectively treat high blood pressure. In those instances, (and even in cases where lifestyle changes have helped), medication may be required to help you manage your hypertension.
- Get more exercise: Your blood pressure can be managed by exercising regularly.
You and your primary care provider will establish a treatment plan to deal with your blood pressure. Can you reverse any hearing loss brought on by high blood pressure? In some cases 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 permanent.
Your hearing will have a better chance of recovering if you address your blood pressure promptly.
How to protect your hearing
You can safeguard your hearing in other ways besides lowering your blood pressure. Here are several ways:
- Wear hearing protection: Earmuff, earplugs, and even noise canceling headphones can help you safeguard your hearing.
- Avoiding loud venues and events: Try to avoid overly loud noises when you can, as these noises can result in damage to your ears. If these settings aren’t completely avoidable, limit your time in noisy environments.
- Talk to us: Any existing hearing loss can be protected and early detection will be possible by getting regular hearing screenings.
We can help you protect your hearing into the future, so make an appointment right away.