The Link Between High Blood Pressure and Hearing Loss
Maintaining normal blood pressure levels is important not just for cardiovascular health, but also to reduce the risk of high blood pressure and hearing loss over time.
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If you have high blood pressure, you’re probably aware of the potential risks like heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. But did you know that uncontrolled high blood pressure could also damage your hearing over time? Recent research has uncovered a connection between high blood pressure and hearing loss.
How The Blood Pressure And Hearing Loss Are Connected?
How does high blood pressure affect hearing? The inner ear contains tiny hair cells that help translate sound waves into electrical signals for the brain to process. These delicate hair cells require a steady supply of blood and oxygen to function properly. When you have chronically elevated blood pressure, it can impair blood flow to the inner ear, potentially injuring or killing those all-important hair cells.
Blood vessel damage and excessive internal ear fluid buildup caused by high blood pressure can also contribute to auditory nerve issues and hearing loss over the long term. Even moderately raised blood pressure levels may make you more susceptible to hearing deficits as you age.
Reducing Your Risk
The negative effects of hypertension on hearing tend to worsen gradually without treatment. Keeping your blood pressure within the normal range through lifestyle changes or medications is key to preventing further inner ear damage.
Get regular hearing tests if you have high blood pressure, especially if you notice any hearing changes. Early treatment can slow the progression of hearing loss. Using noise-cancelling headphones and avoiding loud noise exposure can also help protect your remaining hearing sensitivity.
While research is still underway, evidence points to high blood pressure as a preventable risk factor for age-related hearing impairment. Managing your hypertension could help preserve your ability to hear the world around you clearly in the years ahead.
References:
[1] National Library of Medicine (n.d.) Effects of Hypertension on Hearing Available [Online] at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3889339/
[2] National Council on Aging (2024) Hearing Loss and Diabetes: What You Need to Know Available [Online] at: https://www.ncoa.org/adviser/hearing-aids/diabetes-and-hearing-loss/
[3] CDC (2024) High Blood Pressure Risk Factors Available [Online] at: https://www.cdc.gov/high-blood-pressure/risk-factors/index.html#:~:text=High%20blood%20pressure%20increases%20the,risk%20for%20high%20blood%20pressure.
Randi Leigh Carter
Randi Leigh Carter is a licensed audiologist with over 15 years of experience in treating hearing health issues. She holds a Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) degree from the University of Miami and is certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). As the founder and director of Clarity Hearing Solutions, a leading audiology practice in South Florida, Dr. Carter specializes in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of hearing disorders, from age-related hearing loss to tinnitus and auditory processing issues. She is passionate about helping her patients improve their quality of life through personalized hearing care. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Carter is a respected researcher and speaker. She has published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals on topics such as the impact of hearing loss on cognitive function and the use of advanced hearing technologies. She is also a frequent presenter at national and international audiology conferences, sharing her expertise and insights with her colleagues. Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Carter is deeply committed to community outreach and education. She volunteers with local organizations to provide free hearing screenings and hearing aid assistance to underserved populations. She also serves on the board of directors for the Florida Academy of Audiology, where she works to advance the field and advocate for better hearing healthcare policies.