Patient Resources
Tips and news to support your hearing health.
Your hearing and heart health are more closely linked than you might think. The auditory system relies on healthy blood circulation to function properly, and many cardiovascular conditions can affect this delicate balance. When blood flow is restricted or oxygen levels are reduced, the tiny hair cells in your inner ear can become damaged, leading to hearing difficulties.
Most cardiovascular diseases result from damage to the arteries, often caused by high cholesterol. This can lead to conditions such as high blood pressure, narrowed or stiffened arteries, heart failure, and other complications. By improving either your heart health or your hearing, you can often support the other as well.
How Heart Health Affects Hearing
Research shows that keeping track of your hearing can provide valuable insight into your cardiovascular health. The link lies in blood circulation. The inner ear depends on a constant flow of oxygen-rich blood to nourish the sensory hair cells in the cochlea. These cells are extremely sensitive, and once they are damaged, they cannot regenerate.
Poor blood flow or damage to these structures can therefore contribute to irreversible hearing loss. This is why maintaining cardiovascular health can play an important role in preserving your hearing, particularly as you age.
Taking Care Of Your Hearing Health
It’s essential to have your hearing checked regularly. Anyone over the age of 40 should schedule annual hearing assessments to ensure everything is functioning as it should. Regular testing helps detect subtle changes early, allowing for timely treatment and prevention of further loss.
Prioritising your hearing health can not only improve your quality of life but also contribute to your overall wellbeing and longevity.
Tips For Better Hearing And Heart Health
Taking proactive steps to protect both your hearing and your heart can significantly enhance your long-term health.
1. Exercise Regularly
Keep your body active with simple exercises such as walking, swimming, cycling, or yoga. These activities help improve blood circulation, lower cholesterol, and reduce blood pressure, which benefits both your heart and your ears.
2. Maintain A Heart-Healthy Diet
A nutritious diet can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and hearing loss. Try replacing foods high in trans fats, salt, and processed sugars with whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
3. Quit Smoking
Smoking damages blood vessels and increases blood pressure, which can restrict circulation to the inner ear. It’s harmful to both your cardiovascular system and your auditory health. This applies to vaping as well, which carries many of the same risks.
4. Visit A Hearing Care Professional
Scheduling regular hearing assessments with a qualified hearing care specialist is one of the best ways to stay on top of your hearing health. If hearing loss is detected, your provider can recommend treatment options or further medical evaluations to address any underlying issues.
Take The First Step Towards Better Hearing And Heart Health
Improving your hearing and supporting your heart go hand in hand. Regular check-ups and small lifestyle changes can make a big difference in your long-term wellbeing.
Contact Beckenham Hearing today to book a comprehensive hearing test or to learn more about protecting your hearing and overall health.
Neil grew up in Crystal Palace, exploring its hidden tunnels and treasures long before the area became trendy. Originally trained in micro-electronics engineering, he began his career designing stereo equipment and mixing decks before transitioning into hearing aid technology — a move that sparked a lifelong passion. Over the past 30 years, Neil has worked with leading global hearing aid manufacturers, supporting audiologists with complex fittings and technical challenges.
