Understanding the Link Between Hearing Loss and Heart Disease
Recent studies have linked hearing loss to many serious health conditions, one of which is heart disease. Every year, about 735,000 Americans suffer a heart attack. For three-quarters of these people, they’re experiencing a heart attack for the first time.
“An alarming number of Americans don’t understand how serious the threat of heart disease is to them personally” says Sergei Kochkin, PhD, former Executive Director of the Better Hearing Institute.
It doesn’t make easy reading, but hearing loss is the third most common physical health condition in the US. and heart disease is the leading cause of death (representing 1 in 4 deaths). We will explain how they are linked, but the message is clear- If you are at risk of heart disease and over 40 be sure to get your hearing tested regularly.
What Is The Link?
Blood flow to the delicate inner ear is essential and physiological changes are exhibited quickly. Blood flow can be affected by reduced circulation or damage to blood vessels, and this can cause changes to hearing ability. Poor circulation and a lack of oxygenated blood to the inner ear’s delicate hair cells can cause permanent hearing loss. Once these cells become damaged, they are no longer able to translate sounds into electrical impulses for the brain to interpret.
It is simple to reduce these risks by adopting habits that support good cardiovascular fitness. This helps to boost good blood flow through the body, providing enough oxygenated blood to the inner ear. It works both ways too, by paying attention to any hearing changes you may get early warning of heart disease too.
What You Can Do
As we age, it’s important to be more aware of our health and to have regular health checks. It’s not possible to completely halt age-related changes to our hearing, but being vigilant about changes and seeking professional help swiftly can help to significantly improve your wellbeing and quality of life. We recommend a consultation with your physician to discuss suitable changes to your exercise regime and eating habits. This can have benefits for both your heart and hearing health.
Once your hearing has been evaluated, you could reduce the stress and frustration from an untreated hearing loss by using a hearing aid. This will also boost your health and wellbeing. Plus, technology has advanced so much that it’s never been easier to find a solution that suits your needs.
Visit Our Hearing Care Specialists
Preventing heart disease and heart attacks becomes increasingly vital as we age, as is the need to stay aware of changes to your hearing health. If you notice a change in your hearing, or you know you are at risk of heart disease, it’s time for a hearing assessment. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of the certified hearing care professionals at Hearing Services of Delaware.