When people think about heart health, they usually focus on how it affects the heart, brain and body. But did you know that your heart can also impact your hearing? Studies show keeping your heart healthy can help protect your hearing as well. Knowing this connection can help people take steps to keep both their heart and ears working well.
How Are the Heart and Hearing Connected?
The ear needs good blood flow to work properly. The inner ear, called the cochlea, relies on tiny blood vessels to get oxygen and nutrients. These help the hair cells in the ear pick up sounds and send them to the brain. If blood flow is reduced, these cells can be damaged, leading to hearing loss. Since these hair cells do not grow back, the damage is permanent.
Heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes can all affect circulation and increase the risk of hearing loss. If the arteries get clogged, blood has a harder time reaching the ear. People with heart problems may lose hearing, especially in high-pitched sounds.
What Research Says
Scientists have studied how heart health affects hearing. One study in the American Journal of Audiology found people with heart disease were more likely to have hearing loss. Another study from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) found hearing loss at low frequencies might be an early warning sign of heart problems.
Research from the University of Wisconsin also showed people with poor heart health and a lack of exercise were more likely to lose hearing over time. The study suggested regular physical activity, which helps the heart, also helps protect hearing.
How to Keep Your Heart and Hearing Healthy
Since heart health and hearing are linked, making healthy choices can help both. Here are some tips:
- Stay Active – Activities like walking, jogging and swimming help blood flow and reduce heart disease risk.
- Eat a Healthy Diet – Eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins can lower cholesterol and improve circulation.
- Check Your Blood Pressure and Cholesterol – Keeping these at healthy levels can prevent artery problems that may hurt your hearing.
- Avoid Smoking and Too Much Alcohol – Smoking and heavy drinking can damage blood vessels and increase hearing loss risk. Plus the smoke from cigarettes has chemicals that are toxic to your auditory system.
- Manage Stress – Long-term stress can raise blood pressure and affect both heart and hearing health.
A healthy heart may help keep your hearing strong. The connection between heart health and hearing shows why it’s important to take care of your body. By making healthy choices, people can protect their heart and hearing for years to come. If you notice hearing problems, get a FREE hearing test from Hear Well Be Well. If you think you have heart issues, talking to a doctor can help you find the best way to stay healthy.