Hearing loss affects nearly 50 million Americans, however many do not understand how serious the threat of the ailment is or how closely intertwined it is with other health conditions. Individuals experiencing low frequency hearing loss should not ignore this as growing research has shown a connection between cardiovascular disease and hearing loss.
Our hearing systems are sensitive to changes in blood flow and inadequate blood flow or trauma to the blood vessels that can cause the restriction of blood flow to the inner ear. This causes harm and irreversible damage to the peripheral and central auditory systems.
According to the American Journal of Medicine increased physical activity can actually decrease your risk for hearing loss, as an active lifestyle can improve cardiovascular health and increase blood flow to the ear. Studies have also shown that a healthy cardiovascular system has a positive effect on hearing. The American Heart Association recommends maintaining a healthy diet and keeping blood pressure within range.
The Better Hearing Institute (BHI) recommends getting a hearing test to benefit your heart and health for the following reasons:
- More than six decades of research points to a link between heart and hearing health. Large amounts of research conclude there is a negative influence on the auditory system of those with an impaired cardiovascular health while there is a potential positive influence of improved cardiovascular health on the auditory system
- It is suggested that because of the large amounts of evidence between the cardiovascular health and hearing health that the ear may be the window to the heart. Collaboration between hearing care provides, cardiologists, and other healthcare providers is strongly encouraged.
- Lifestyle behaviors that affect the heart also impact hearing. One study revealed that smokers ae more likely to suffer from hearing loss than non-smokers. Another study revealed that a healthy diet with regular fish consumption and a higher intake of omega-3s is associated with a lower risk of hearing loss.
- Being proactive about hearing loss can lead to improve quality of life and reduce stress. Users of hearing aids see improvements in their lives overall including an enhancement in interpersonal relationships, experiencing less anger and frustration, and enhanced emotional stability.
- Hearing aids today are better than ever and are virtually invisible. State-of-the art hearings aids are high tech tools to help people stay socially, physically and mentally active.
A basic hearing test is recommended for all individuals, but it is suggested that those with a risk factors of heart disease and those who have already been diagnosed be particularly attentive about hearing loss. These individuals are encouraged to work with their primary care physician to include hearing health in their regular monitoring and treatment plans.
If you would like to address your heart health and hearing in Scottsdale, contact the office of Dr. Cassandra Fynes online or by calling (480) 456-0176 to schedule a hearing consultation.