Were you aware that your risk of developing age-related hearing loss can be increased if you have high blood pressure?
From around 40 years old and up, you may start to detect that your hearing is beginning to go. You probably won’t even detect your developing hearing loss even though it’s a permanent condition. Years of noise damage is usually the cause. So how does hypertension lead to hearing loss? 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 important
Blood pressure is a measure of how rapidly blood flows through your circulatory system. 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 become less flexible and more prone to blockages. Cardiovascular problems, such as a stroke, can be the consequence of these blockages. That’s one reason why healthcare professionals often 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 emergency happens when your blood pressure goes over 180/120. Immediate management is needed when this happens.
How is hearing loss caused by hypertension?
The blood vessels inside of your ear and your whole 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. Likewise, high blood pressure can negatively impact the stereocilia in your ear (the little hairs responsible for picking up vibrations). These stereocilia aren’t capable of self-regeneration, so any damage they incur is permanent.
So regardless of the specific cause, permanent hearing loss can be the consequence of any damage. Research indicates that individuals who have normal blood pressure readings tend to have a much lower prevalence of hearing loss. People who reported higher blood pressure were also more likely to have more severe hearing loss. The findings of the study make clear that keeping your blood pressure under control can help you avoid the impacts of hearing loss.
What does high blood pressure feel like in your ears?
Normally, the symptoms of high blood pressure are hardly detectable. So-called “hot ears” are not a sign of high blood pressure. What are hot ears? It’s a symptom where your ears feel warm and grow red. Usually, it’s a sign of changes in blood flow related to emotions, hormones, and other non-blood pressure-related issues.
In some circumstances, high blood pressure can worsen tinnitus symptoms. But if your tinnitus was a result of high blood pressure, how could you tell? It’s impossible to definitively tell without talking to a doctor or hearing specialist. In general, however, tinnitus is not a sign of high blood pressure. There’s a reason that high blood pressure is often referred to as “the silent killer”.
Usually, it’s not 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 can you lower your blood pressure?
Normally, there are many factors that contribute to high blood pressure. That’s why lowering blood pressure may require a variety of approaches. Your primary care physician should be where you address your high blood pressure. Here’s what that management might entail:
- Take medication as prescribed: Sometimes, 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 could be necessary to help you control your hypertension.
- Avoid sodium: Keep the salt intake to a minimum. Avoid processed food when possible and find lower salt alternatives if possible.
- Get more exercise: Your blood pressure can be managed by getting regular exercise.
- 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.
You and your doctor will establish a treatment plan to address your blood pressure. 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. You may be able to rejuvenate your hearing to some degree by lowering your blood pressure, according to some evidence. But at least some of the damage will most likely be permanent.
The sooner your high blood pressure is reversed, the more likely it will be that your hearing will get better.
How to safeguard your hearing
While lowering your blood pressure can certainly be good for your health (and your hearing), there are other ways to safeguard your hearing. Here are a number of ways:
- Talk to us: Having your hearing tested regularly can help you protect your hearing and identify any hearing loss early.
- Wear hearing protection: You can protect your hearing by using earplugs, earmuffs, or noise canceling headphones.
- Avoiding loud venues and events: Try to avoid overly loud noises where you can, as these noises can cause damage to your ears. If these locations are not entirely avoidable, limit your time in noisy environments.
If you have high blood pressure and are showing symptoms of hearing loss, be certain to book an appointment with us so we can help you address your hearing loss and protect your hearing health.
