When most individuals think of the dangers associated with high blood pressure– also called hypertension– they often focus on heart attacks, strokes, or kidney disease. But did you know that unmanaged hypertension can also elevate your danger for hearing loss, especially as you get older?
Presbycusis, also known as age-related hearing loss, normally starts to become evident in people aged in their 40s, 50s, or 60s. It may advance gradually and without noticeable symptoms, but the damage it creates is usually permanent. Age-related hearing loss often arises from extended exposure to sound, resulting in gradual deterioration of the ear’s delicate mechanisms over time. An essential but frequently neglected factor is high blood pressure, which has the potential to destroy the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.
What is blood pressure and why should you care?
Blood pressure is a measure of the power of blood flow in your arteries. When this pressure is persistently too high, it puts substantial strain on your blood vessels. Extended exposure to this condition can result in arterial deterioration, causing the blood vessels to become stiff, constricted, or compromised, which in turn raises the danger of developing serious health complications, including impaired hearing.
Your blood pressure reading is composed of two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (the top number) measures the pressure during heartbeats.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) gauges pressure between beats.
Categories of blood pressure
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
- Slightly High: Blood Pressure Ranges from 120-129 over Less Than 80
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 140+/ 90+ mm Hg
- Hypertensive Crisis: Over 180/120 mm Hg (emergency care required)
- Embrace a heart-healthy diet: Emphasize whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is a great place to start.
- Try to engage in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes each week to maintain regular exercise.
- Reduce sodium intake: Limit processed and fast foods, which are typically high in sodium.
- Follow medication guidelines: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication consistently as directed by your doctor.
- Reduce stress: Incorporate relaxation strategies like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your day-to-day regimen.
- To prevent harm from loud noises, make sure to limit the time you spend around them. Don’t forget to use hearing protection when you are at a concert, working with noisy machinery, or in loud settings.
- Consider utilizing protective gear for your ears, including earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to reduce the risks of harm to your hearing caused by loud noises.
- Schedule regular hearing exams: Early detection of hearing loss can lead to better treatment results and long-term hearing health.