Comorbidity is the simultaneous presence of two or more diseases or illnesses in one person. Comorbidity does not always equal causation but may help to explain why two conditions often present together. Hearing loss has many comorbidities, but one common example is hypertension or high blood pressure.
What Is Hypertension?
A patient is considered hypertensive if the pressure in their blood vessels is too high (140/90 mmHg or higher). Hypertension affects up to 45% of the adult populace worldwide and can cause serious side effects if left untreated.
High blood pressure does not usually exhibit symptoms until it is at dangerous levels. People with a blood pressure of 180/120 mmHg or higher may experience one or more of the following symptoms, including but not limited to:
- Headaches
- Blurred vision
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Nausea or vomiting
Untreated hypertension can lead to increased risk of other health conditions including but not limited to kidney disease, heart disease, stroke, tinnitus and hearing loss.
Hypertension and Hearing
When the force of the blood pushing against the arterial walls is too high, the heart has to work much harder to pump blood through the body. With increased force, the blood pumping through the inner ear can cause temporary or permanent hearing damage.
One study found that hypertension may be an accelerating factor in the degeneration of the hearing apparatus. Patients in the study with the highest blood pressure were found to have the greatest increase in hearing thresholds, especially at high frequencies. An increased hearing threshold means the listener has decreased hearing sensitivity and may find it harder to detect soft sounds.
If you have high blood pressure, it is recommended to get regular hearing tests to track hearing over time. Because many cases of hearing loss are permanent, it is essential to manage your blood pressure for better overall health and decreased likelihood of hearing loss.
How Can You Prevent Hypertension-Induced Hearing Loss?
The best way to prevent hypertension-induced hearing loss is to manage your blood pressure through a healthy lifestyle and regular check-ups.
A couple of Mayo Clinic recommendations for healthy blood pressure include:
- Eat a healthy diet. A diet low in processed foods and high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains is an excellent addition to your heart-healthy lifestyle plan.
- Reduce stress. Stress can cause elevated blood pressure. Try adding a self or app-led meditation in Woodin Creek Park a couple of times a week to lower your stress levels.
- Exercise. Exercise helps with more than just your blood pressure. Physical activity can improve your brain health, strengthen bones and muscles, reduce your risk of disease and more. Try adding a daily run or walk to help manage your blood pressure.
Following these tips for healthy blood pressure will help prevent hypertension-induced hearing loss. For more information on protecting your hearing health, contact Hearing Advancement Center today to make an appointment with one of our specialists.
