Did you know that high blood pressure can also increase your risk of developing age-related hearing loss?
Age related hearing loss usually begins to manifest in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. Your symptoms may progress slowly and be largely invisible, but this type of hearing loss is permanent. Usually, it’s the result of many years of noise-related damage. So how does hypertension cause hearing loss? The answer is that high blood pressure can cause widespread damage to your blood vessels–including those in your ears.
What is blood pressure (and why does it matter?)
Blood pressure is a measure of how quickly blood flows through your circulatory system. High blood pressure means that this blood moves more quickly than normal. Over time, this can cause damage to your blood vessels. These damaged vessels grow less elastic and more prone to blockages. A blockage can result in a stroke or other cardiovascular issues. That’s one of the reasons why healthcare professionals often pay close attention to your blood pressure.
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
A hypertensive crisis occurs when your blood pressure is over 180/120. This type of event should be treated immediately.
How does hypertension cause hearing loss?
Hypertension can cause widespread damage to your blood vessels, including the blood vessels in your ear. As these blood vessels become damaged, it’s likely that the nerves in your ear also suffer lasting damage. Likewise, high blood pressure can negatively affect the stereocilia in your ear (the tiny hairs responsible for sensing vibrations). These stereocilia are not capable of self-regeneration–so any damage they incur is permanent.
This means that damage to the ears–no matter the cause–can result in permanent hearing loss. Studies found that those with normal blood pressure readings tended to have a much lower prevalence of hearing loss. Those 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 prevent the effects of hearing loss. And the reverse is, of course, also true.
What does high blood pressure feel like in your ears?
In the vast majority of cases, high blood pressure is a symptomless condition. So-called hot ears are not a sign of high blood pressure. (What are hot ears? It’s a symptom in which 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 cases, high blood pressure can exacerbate tinnitus symptoms. But how do you know if tinnitus is from high blood pressure? It’s impossible to definitively tell without speaking to a doctor or hearing specialist. In general, however, tinnitus is not a symptom of high blood pressure. (There’s a reason that high blood pressure is often referred to as “the silent killer.”)
Most people notice 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 can you lower your blood pressure?
High blood pressure is usually caused by a confluence of many different factors. As a result, you may have to take several different steps and use a variety of methods to successfully lower your blood pressure. In general, you should work with your primary care provider to lower your blood pressure. That management may look like the following:
- Diet changes: Eating a mediterranean diet can help you lower blood pressure. Essentially, avoid foods like red meats and eat more fruits and vegetables.
- Get more exercise: Exercising regularly (or simply getting your body moving on a regular basis) can help reduce your overall blood pressure.
- Avoid sodium: Pay attention to the amount of sodium in your food–especially processed foods. Find lower sodium alternatives when possible (or avoid processed foods when you can).
- Take medication as prescribed: Sometimes no amount of diet and exercise can prevent or successfully treat high blood pressure. In those cases (and even in cases where lifestyle changes have worked), medication may be required to help you control your hypertension. Make sure to take this medication as directed.
You and your primary care provider will develop a treatment plan to address your blood pressure. Can hearing loss from high blood pressure be reversed? The answer depends. There is some evidence to suggest that lowering your blood pressure can help restore your hearing–at least partially. But it’s also likely that at least some of the damage incurred will be permanent.
The faster your high blood pressure is reversed, the more likely 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 you can protect your hearing, too. This could include:
- Avoiding loud venues and events: Try to avoid overly loud noises where you can, as these noises can cause hearing damage to your ears. If these places are not entirely avoidable, limit your time in loud environments.
- Wear hearing protection: Earmuff, earplugs, and even noise canceling headphones can help you protect your hearing.
- Talk to a hearing specialist: Getting your hearing screened regularly can help you preserve your hearing and detect any hearing loss early. Early detection can often help you preserve your hearing more fully for longer.
If you have high blood pressure and are showing symptoms of hearing loss, make sure to book an appointment with a hearing specialist who can help you treat your hearing loss and protect your hearing health.