You've heard how beneficial exercise and a clean diet can be for your heart, but did you know keeping your heart happy can also keep your hearing healthy?

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of death in both men and women. More than 610,000 people die each year in the United States alone due to heart disease.

People with heart disease, or cardiovascular disease, often have other medical issues as well. This is likely due to the effect heart disease has on the structure and function of blood vessels. Many people with cardiovascular disease have narrow or blocked blood vessels that lead to chest pain and, if left untreated, fatal heart attacks and strokes. 

Despite being the number one killer of women in America, many people are still unfamiliar with just how serious heart disease can be, and just how many other complications can occur as a result of a failure to maintain a heart-healthy diet and exercise routine. 

The connection between heart and hearing health

How does hearth health correlate to hearing health? When the blood vessels surrounding the heart are narrow and constricted, chances are the blood vessels in other parts of the body are as well. When blood vessels in the ear become constricted, this can contribute to hearing loss and tinnitus. 

The reason for this the effect poor circulation can have on the delicate hairs in the cochlea that translate noise into electrical impulses the brain can understand and interpret. Because these hairs lack the ability to reproduce or regrow themselves, hearing loss can be permanent in cases where the hairs receive too little oxygen to function properly.

How to Prevent Hearing Loss

The good news is that with proper diet and exercise, you can prevent hearing loss caused by poor circulation and constricted blood vessels. It's recommended that adults receive at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, if they are able. 

Exercise doesn't have to be boring. Join a senior fitness group to get moving with friends. Take a walk at the park, or try a yoga or pilates class to get your blood flowing. If you are concerned your health is affecting your hearing, consider having a professional hearing instrument specialist provide a free hearing evaluation to determine what treatment options are suitable for you.

Hearing Evaluations in Memphis, TN

Researchers hypothesize low frequency hearing loss could be an indicator of the presence or potential development of cardiovascular disease. Start your journey to better health by making an appointment with our office. If hearing loss is detected, follow treatment guidelines and follow up with your family physician.  

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT