New research suggests that a healthy heart is a key to healthy hearing, especially later in life. The inner ear is sensitive to changes in blood flow, so while a healthy cardiovascular system positively impacts hearing, inadequate blood flow or trauma to the blood vessels in the inner ear can contribute to hearing loss. Patients who suffer from or are at risk for heart disease, should be especially cautious and have their hearing screened on a regular basis. Heart disease, hypertension or other restriction of blood supply to the ears can cause permanent hearing loss.
The supporting facts:
- A higher BMI (Body Mass Index) and larger waist circumference in women are associated with an increased risk in hearing loss.
- Patients with vascular abnormalities complain more often of ringing in the ears than those without abnormalities.
- A smoker’s risk of hearing loss increases by 15.1% compared to a non-smoker.
- Women with a history of heart attack are 2.7 times more likely to have impaired cochlear function.
Treatment and prevention
The best way to treat heart disease or hearing loss is to monitor and prevent it. All adults over the age of 55 should be referred for a baseline diagnostic audiological evaluation. If you suspect hearing loss, seek treatment as soon as possible. For more information, or to learn more about how your cardiovascular health can affect your hearing, contact us today. Healthy heart or not, our trusted hearing health care professionals can answer any questions or concerns you have about hearing loss prevention or treatment.