What do your ears reveal about your health?

By Lisa Collier Cool Oct 17, 2013 577 Recommend

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by Lisa Collier Cool

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A growing body of research suggests that hearing loss and cardiovascular disease are often linked. Although the nature of this connection is still under

investigation, experts suggest that injury to blood vessels and impaired blood flow may be to blame. The inner ear is so sensitive to blood flow that it is possible that abnormalities in the cardiovascular system could be noted here earlier than in other less sensitive parts of the body, explains David R. Friedland, MD, PhD, in a press release issued by the Better Hearing Institute (BHI). As a result, hearing loss could provide an early warning sign of cardiovascular risk factors. BHI recommends that adults have their hearing tested as a routine part of their medical care once they reach the age of 40.

The Link Between Cardiovascular and Auditory Health

BHIs recommendation reflects decades worth of research linking cardiovascular and auditory health, including a study published by Dr. Friedland and colleagues in The Laryngoscope. Comparing audiometric and cardiovascular data collected from more than 1,000 patients, the investigators found a significant association between low-frequency hearing loss and cardiovascular disease including stroke, peripheral vascular disease, coronary artery disease, and history of heart attack. They suggest that patients with low-frequency hearing loss should be considered at risk of cardiovascular events. They also believe that audiogram testing may provide a new screening tool to assess the danger of cardiovascular illness. Another study published in the American Journal of Audiology examined six decades worth of studies that explore the links between cardiovascular health and the functioning of auditory systems. The researchers found significant evidence that impaired cardiovascular health negatively impacts hearing. Their findings also suggest that improved cardiovascular health may contribute to healthier ears, particularly among older adults. 28 Tips for a Healthier Heart

Hearing Loss and Other Health Risks

Heart disease isnt the only health condition associated with hearing loss. Auditory impairment may also contribute to risk of: Hospitalization. According to a new study conducted at Johns Hopkins Medicine, older adults with hearing loss are more likely to be hospitalized, compared to peers with good auditory health. They are also more apt to experience prolonged periods of illness, injury, stress, and depression. Depression. Hearing loss and vocal problems, such as dysphonia or hoarseness, often go hand-in-hand, say researchers at Duke University Medical Center. Each condition has been associated with increased risk of depression, social anxiety, and isolation among elderly patients. Those with both conditions may be at even greater risk of mental health problems. Dementia. Hearing loss may contribute to greater odds of dementia, suggests a recent study of adults with mild to severe hearing loss published in Archives of Neurology. Contributing factors may include reduced involvement in leisure activities and social interactions, which often occur with age-related deafness. Loss of sleep. Negative effects of hearing loss are not just limited to the elderly. Hearing impairment among workers who are exposed to sustained levels of loud noise on the job may lead to poor sleep quality and increased chances of insomnia, warn researchers from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev. Tinnitus, or ringing of the ears, was identified as a primary sleep disrupting factor. Impaired learning. Among children, hearing loss may negatively impact learning by reducing their ability to comprehend and use language, caution researchers from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. Up to one in twenty children experience hearing loss in one ear by the time they reach school age, and many of them remain undiagnosed and untreated. 10 Healthy Habits Every Parents Should Teach Their Kids

Early Detection and Treatment Are Key

Ignoring hearing loss could be dangerous, particularly when it arises from underlying cardiovascular issues. Once you reach the age of forty, consider incorporate comprehensive hearing tests into your routine medical check-ups. If you test positive for hearing loss: Ask your doctor about associated health effects, including the potential risk of cardiovascular disease. Invest in assistive listening devices, such as telephone amplifiers, and hearing aids to limit negative health outcomes and maintain higher quality of life. Connect with hearing loss counseling services to develop realistic expectations and coping strategies to manage changes in your auditory health.