Did you know that your heart and your ears are connected? It might seem surprising, but caring for your heart can also help protect your hearing.
When your heart is healthy, it pumps blood more efficiently to all body parts, including your ears.
This means your ears get the oxygen and nutrients they need to stay in good shape.
On the other hand, if your heart isn’t working well, it can affect your hearing, too.
Let’s explore how heart and hearing health are linked and why keeping both in check is important!
The Connection Between The Ears And The Heart
The connection between the heart and hearing is all about blood flow. Tiny hair cells in the inner ear help us hear by translating noise into sound the brain understands.
These hair cells need good blood flow to work well. If blood flow is poor, the hair cells don’t get enough oxygen and can die. Once these cells die, they don’t grow back, leading to permanent hearing loss.
Because of this link, hearing loss might be a sign of heart problems. It’s important to take steps to protect both our heart and ears by living a healthy lifestyle.
Preventing Heart Problems
One change you can make is to increase physical activity. One small study from Miami University in Ohio found a direct correlation between cardiovascular health and hearing abilities.
Subjects’ hearing was evaluated after riding a stationary bike. Those with higher fitness levels tended to have better hearing – particularly in subjects older than 50.
Another study from the University of Mississippi showed that more physically fit people had lower triglyceride levels. High triglyceride levels are often linked to hearing problems.
Here are some other changes you can make:
- Quit smoking: Stopping smoking lowers your chances of getting heart disease and losing your hearing.
- Eat better: Eating healthy foods is good for your heart and helps your hearing. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables, fish, and whole grains. Try to eat less salty food and food with many unhealthy fats.
Can a blocked artery cause hearing loss?
Yes, a blocked artery can cause hearing loss. Arteries are like highways for blood in your body, carrying oxygen and nutrients to all your organs, including your ears.
If an artery gets blocked, the blood flow to your ears can be reduced, damaging the tiny parts inside your ear that help you hear. So, keeping your arteries healthy is important for your hearing.
Can sudden hearing loss be a stroke?
Yes, sudden hearing loss can sometimes be a sign of a stroke. A stroke happens when the blood flow to part of your brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts.
This can damage the parts of your brain that control hearing. If you or someone you know suddenly can’t hear well in one or both ears, it’s important to tell an adult and see a doctor immediately. Getting help quickly can make a big difference.
What foods improve hearing?
Certain foods can help keep your hearing healthy. Here are some examples:
- Fish: Fish like salmon and tuna are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for your ears.
- Fruits and Vegetables: Oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers contain many vitamins that help protect hearing.
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds are full of healthy fats and vitamins that support ear health.
- Whole Grains: Foods like brown rice, oatmeal, and whole wheat bread help improve blood flow to your ears.
- Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate contains zinc, which helps keep your inner ear healthy.
Eating these foods can help keep your ears in good shape and improve your hearing.
Audiologists and Hearing Aids In NYC
Caring for your heart and ears can lead to a healthier life.
You can protect your heart and hearing by making small changes like eating better and being more physically active. Remember, your health is in your hands!
Ready to start your journey to better health? Begin today by making these simple changes.
Need to see an audiologist and have your hearing checked?
Audio Help Hearing Centers prides itself on delivering expert hearing solutions in New York and various key locations.
Audio Help has three New York City offices conveniently located in Manhattan (Chelsea Village, Columbus Circle, and Park Avenue) and additional offices in Scarsdale, NY (Westchester County) and Stamford, CT.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
