The heart plays a role in our well-being far beyond romance. There’s an interesting connection between cardiovascular health, heart disease and hearing loss Omaha. This Valentine’s Day, let’s delve into this relationship and understand how taking care of our hearts can also be an act of preserving our hearing!

The cardiovascular system and hearing health

The cardiovascular system comprises the heart and blood vessels, ensuring the circulation of blood throughout our bodies. A strong cardiovascular system is vital for overall health, and it turns out that it's closely tied to the health of our ears as well. Here’s how:

Shared risk factors

Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes and atherosclerosis (the buildup of plaque in the arteries) can impair both cardiovascular health and hearing.

Blood flow and the inner ear

The inner ear is responsible for hearing and balance, and it relies on a steady supply of oxygen-rich blood. Any disruption in blood flow, caused by cardiovascular issues, can potentially damage the delicate hair cells of the inner ear, leading to hearing loss.

Impact on the cochlea

The cochlea is a spiral-shaped organ in the inner ear, and it contains tiny hair cells that convert sound vibrations into electrical signals. Adequate blood flow is crucial for maintaining the health of these hair cells, and compromised blood circulation can harm them.

Ischemic hearing loss

Ischemic hearing loss is a term used to describe hearing impairment resulting from reduced blood flow to the inner ear. This condition can occur due to cardiovascular events like strokes or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), often referred to as "mini-strokes."

Shared lifestyle factors

Unhealthy lifestyle habits such as smoking, a sedentary lifestyle and poor diet choices can contribute to both cardiovascular issues and hearing loss. Making positive lifestyle choices benefits both our hearts and our ears.

Preventing heart disease to preserve hearing

Here are some ways you can maintain a healthy lifestyle to benefit both your heart and hearing!

Stay active and move your body

Engaging in regular physical activity supports cardiovascular health, enhances blood flow and reduces the risk of both heart disease and hearing loss.

Eat a balanced diet

A heart-healthy diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains, can positively impact both cardiovascular health and hearing preservation. 

Blood pressure management

Monitoring and managing blood pressure is crucial. High blood pressure is a risk factor for heart disease and can also affect hearing health.

Quit smoking and vaping

Quitting smoking or vaping is one of the most significant steps one can take to protect both the heart and hearing.

Get regular check-ups

Routine medical check-ups can help detect and address cardiovascular issues early, potentially reducing their impact on hearing.

We’d love to help you with hearing loss Omaha

As we celebrate Valentine’s Day, let’s also adopt heart-healthy habits so we can safeguard the vitality of our hearts and cherish all the sounds in our lives. If you or a loved one are experiencing hearing loss Omaha, contact us today and see how a hearing consultation can help!