The Connection Between Hearing and The Heart
As the progress of modern medicine marches on, more and more data is found that connects the major systems in the body and shows how these systems work together and affect each other in times of stress. In this article, we will discuss the connection between the heart and hearing and what steps you can take to help improve your overall cardiovascular and hearing health.
Understanding the Connection Between the Heart and Hearing
Studies and research of 60 years of data show patterns of correlated decline and recovery between hearing and cardiovascular health. The reason for this connection is simple; both systems rely on proper blood flow to function. Issues like heart disease affect the hearing by reducing healthy blood traveling to the inner ears starving them of much-needed oxygen and nutrients. Long-term and chronic heart problems can lead to permanent hearing loss if not taken care of in due course. So. if you are at risk of heart disease or have cardiovascular issues, you are also at risk for hearing loss. The good news is there are some simple steps you can take to help mitigate your risks.
How to Reduce the Risks
Exercise
Adding a light exercise regime can significantly improve overall health. The best part is you don’t have to go crazy about it; no gym is required. It only takes two hours of activity per week, seventeen minutes a day, to help regulate and improve blood flow and mitigate the chances of developing hearing loss.
Improved Diet
Your body can only function properly with proper nutrition. Poor diets are directly linked to a range of adverse medical conditions, including heart disease and hearing loss. Recommended diets for heart and hearing issues include fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, and olive oil, limiting sugar, salt, animal fat, and especially alcohol.
Reduce Stress
Unchecked stress has been linked to all kinds of adverse health issues, such as anxiety, heart disease, stroke, tinnitus (ringing in the ears,) and headache. Speak to your doctor or a medical specialist if you are having trouble coping and dealing with too much stress.
Quit Smoking
Smoking cigarettes reduces the amount of oxygen circulating through the body and impairs the normal operation of the lungs. Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of both heart disease and hearing loss. Quitting now will help you breathe better, reducing the chances of developing worse issues later.
Talk to a Cardiologist or Audiologist
If you are experiencing worsening issues or are concerned about your risk factors, speak to an audiologist, a cardiologist, or your doctor to see what steps you can take to improve your heart and hearing health.