- Staying within a healthy weight
- Having a nutrient-dense and well-balanced diet
- Getting regular physical activities
- Quitting smoking
- Limiting alcohol intake
- Learning to manage stress
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimated that over 600,000 people in the United States die from cardiovascular disease.
Heart disease is still the leading cause of death of men and women in the country. It is often linked to vessel damage as a result of hypertension or narrowed or blocked arteries (arteriosclerosis).
These issues can lead to rupture of both minor and major blood vessels in the body, leading to chest pain, heart attack, or stroke. But did you know that your heart health can also affect your sense of hearing?
The Connection Between Heart Disease and Hearing Loss
Studies have shown that good blood circulation plays an important role in maintaining good hearing health. And conversely, poor heart health can contribute to hearing loss.
This has something to do with the sensitive hair cells in the cochlea and its response to poor blood circulation. These hair cells play an important role in translating the noise collected by the ears into recognizable sounds. They rely on good blood circulation. Without it, there would be inadequate oxygen for them, eventually causing damage.
The inner hair cells do not regenerate. So, when they are damaged, hearing loss is inevitable.
Protect your heart, protect your hearing
Establishing habits to protect your heart health is also one way of protecting your hearing. You can do that by: