Are you aware that your risk of developing age-related hearing loss can be increased if you have high blood pressure?
From about 40 years old and up, you may begin to notice that your hearing is starting to fail. You probably won’t even notice your progressing hearing loss even though it’s a permanent condition. Typically, it’s the result of many years of noise-related damage. So how is hearing loss caused by hypertension? The blood vessels in your ears and your blood vessels in general can be damaged by high blood pressure.
Blood pressure and why it’s so significant
Blood pressure is a measure of how quickly blood flows through your circulatory system. When the blood flows faster than normal it means you have high blood pressure. Damage to your blood vessels can happen over time as a result. These damaged vessels grow less flexible and more prone to blockages. A blockage can result in a stroke or other cardiovascular issues. Healthcare professionals usually pay very close attention to a patient’s blood pressure as a result.
What constitutes high blood pressure?
The basic 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
When your blood pressure gets as high as 180/120, it’s considered a hypertensive crisis. Immediate treatment is needed when this happens.
How is hearing loss caused by hypertension?
Hypertension can cause extensive damage to your blood vessels, including the blood vessels in your ear. As these blood vessels get damaged, it’s likely that the nerves in your ear also endure lasting damage. 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 irreversible.
So regardless of the particular cause, irreversible hearing loss can be the consequence of any damage. According to some research, the percentage of people who have hearing loss is higher when they have high blood pressure readings. People who reported higher blood pressure were also more likely to have more extreme hearing loss. The effects 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?
In the vast majority of cases, high blood pressure is a symptomless condition. High blood pressure doesn’t cause “hot ears”. “Hot ears” is an affliction where your ears feel hot and get red. Hot ears are normally caused by changes in blood flow due to hormonal, emotional, and other issues not associated with blood pressure.
In some cases, high blood pressure can worsen tinnitus symptoms. But how can you tell if tinnitus is from high blood pressure? The only way to know for certain is to talk to your doctor. Tinnitus is generally not a symptom of high blood pressure. There’s a reason that high blood pressure is often called “the silent killer”.
Usually, 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 is high blood pressure managed?
High blood pressure is typically due to a confluence of various different factors. That’s why lowering blood pressure may call for a variety of approaches. Your primary care doctor should be where you address your high blood pressure. Here’s what that management might entail:
- Diet changes: Eating a Mediterranean diet can help you lower blood pressure. Eat more fruits and vegetables and avoid things like red meat.
- Take medication as prescribed: In some instances, high blood pressure can’t be addressed with diet and exercise alone. In those cases, (and even in cases where lifestyle changes have helped), medication might be required to help you manage your hypertension.
- Get more exercise: Getting regular exercise (or simply moving around on a regular basis) can help decrease your overall blood pressure.
- Avoid sodium: Keep the sodium intake to a minimum. Find lower sodium alternatives when you can (or avoid processed foods when possible).
You and your doctor will develop a treatment plan to deal with your blood pressure. Can you reverse any hearing loss brought on by high blood pressure? The answer depends. There is some evidence to suggest that lowering your blood pressure can help revive your hearing, at least in part. But at least some of the damage will probably be permanent.
The faster your high blood pressure is corrected, the more likely it will be that your hearing will return.
How to protect your hearing
While lowering your blood pressure can certainly be good for your health (and your hearing), there are other ways to protect your hearing. Here are several ways:
- Wear hearing protection: Earmuff, earplugs, and even noise canceling headphones can help you protect your hearing.
- Talk to us: Getting your hearing tested regularly can help you maintain your hearing and identify any hearing loss early.
- Avoiding loud venues and events: Try to avoid overly loud noises when you can, as these noises can cause damage to your ears. If these locations aren’t completely avoidable, limit your time in noisy environments.
We can help you maintain your hearing into the future, so book an appointment as soon as possible.
