Cardiovascular disease is a very serious public health issue. According to the American Heart Association, about 92.1 million American adults are living with some form of cardiovascular disease.
A person’s hearing and cardiovascular health frequently correspond. Recent studies have shown that there is a solid connection between decreased blood flow from cardiovascular disease and low-frequency hearing loss. Researchers at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee believe that this is caused by damage to the blood vessels which are vital in hearing.
What can you do?
Since “abnormalities in the cardiovascular system could be noted in the ears earlier than in other less sensitive parts of the body,” all individuals 40 and older should get regular hearing tests as a routine part of their medical care. Patients with low-frequency hearing loss would be regarded as at risk for cardiovascular events, and appropriate referrals would be considered.
Additional ways to lower your risk for heart disease include:
- Maintaining a well-balanced diet – eating fish, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, has been proven to support healthy blood flow throughout the body, including the cochlea.
- Monitoring your blood pressure
- Exercising regularly
- Quitting Smoking
If you are over 40 or at risk for cardiovascular disease, call Swift Audiology at (412) 851-9500 to schedule your annual hearing evaluation.
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By Dr. Nicole Schott, Au.D.,CCC-A