According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), almost half of all adults in the United States have hypertension. Left untreated, hypertension can lead to a variety of health problems, including hearing loss.
High Blood Pressure Can Damage Hearing
A 2013 study found that high blood pressure can accelerate age-related hearing loss in people between the ages of 45 to 64 and that the higher a person’s blood pressure was, the more likely they were to have hearing loss. Specifically, researchers found mild hearing loss in:
- 18 % of patients without hypertension
- 36.7 % of patients with grade 1 hypertension
- 40.4 % of patients with grade 2 hypertension
- 54.2 % of patients with grade 3 hypertension
Uncontrolled high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels of your body. This includes the vessels that carry blood to your ears. If these blood vessels are damaged it can impact your ears’ ability to function and lead to hearing loss.
Manage High Blood Pressure to Protect Your Hearing Health
While finding out you have high blood pressure can be a little scary, the good news is that there are many scientifically proven ways to control your blood pressure. Getting it under control will benefit so many aspects of your health, including hearing.
Manage your hypertension by:
- Taking any medications prescribed by your doctor.
- Eating a diet low in sodium and trans fats and high in vegetables, fruits and whole grains.
- Getting regular physical activity. Whether you prefer going to the gym or taking walks through Beaverdam Park, getting 30 minutes of exercise five days a week can help keep your blood pressure in check.
- Reducing stress. Try meditating, breathing exercises, yoga or acupuncture. Anything that gets you to slow down and relax can benefit your heart.
Schedule a Hearing Test
If you notice that you’re having a hard time following conversations or that you need to turn the TV or radio up louder than you used to, make an appointment for a hearing test as these may be early signs of hearing loss.
If you are found to have hearing loss, your audiologist will likely recommend hearing aids. They will work with you to find the right pair to best improve your hearing and match your individual needs. People who use hearing aids report better physical, mental and cognitive health than those who leave their hearing loss untreated.
For additional information or to schedule an appointment, call The Audiology Offices today.
