We all know the dangers of chronic stress. This modern condition has been shown to cause, or worsen, a variety of unwanted health issues ranging from heart disease to diabetes. So perhaps it is not surprising that in recent studies, high levels of stress have been linked to hearing loss as well. As hearing loss and associated problems such as tinnitus (a ringing in the ears) can also lead to stress and anxiety, people with untreated hearing loss can often find themselves caught in a negative stress-hearing loss cycle. Read on for more information about the link between these conditions and how to reduce stress in everyday life.
What is chronic stress?
Our ancestors used stress and adrenaline to outwit predators and survive in dangerous environments, but these days the chemical response of “fight or flight” may do more harm to our bodies than good. Our modern society is full of stressors, and many people are in a state of stress on a daily or even hourly basis. Chronic stress, defined by the Free Medical Dictionary as “A state of prolonged tension from internal or external stressors,” can have a number of negative physical manifestations, one of which, as it turns out, is hearing loss.
How does chronic stress lead to hearing loss?
Hearing loss can be caused or worsened by a number of factors, but the primary ones are aging and exposure to loud noises. So, what role does stress play?
It’s an issue of circulation. The hair cells in the inner ear need a constant flow of blood and delivery of nutrients to survive. Chronic stress plays a big part in the slowing or stopping of blood flow, and adrenaline can actually reduce blood supply in the inner ear, or cause it to stop completely. When someone is chronically stressed, the hair cells so vital to hearing suffer damage as a result of this reduced circulation.
If you have high levels of stress and think it might be having an effect on your hearing, here are some symptoms to watch out for:
-You have lost the ability to hear certain frequencies
-People seem to be mumbling
-Your ears feel stuffed, blocked, or stopped up
-You have pressure or pain in one or both ears
-Sounds seem to be muted or distant
Hearing loss can often be subtle or gradual, and the symptoms are not always easy to recognize. The best way to be sure of your hearing level (and if chronic stress is damaging your hearing) is to come in for a hearing check-up with us at Desert Valley Audiology. We will test your ability to hear various frequencies and recommend a course of treatment if one is needed, as well as the best ways to preserve the hearing you have.
Ways to Cope with Stress
Even if your hearing seems fine, a stressful lifestyle can eventually take a toll on this important sense. Here are a few simple things that can help in a big way when you’re feeling stressed.
- Deep breaths. The very first thing you should do anytime you’re experiencing stress is to take a big, deep breath. Breathe in through your nose, and out through your mouth; the exhale should be as long as possible. The American Institute of Stress says that the relaxation response triggered by deep breathing can decrease metabolism, lower your heartbeat, relax muscles and lower blood pressure.
- Think positive. Keeping a positive outlook has also been shown to reduce stress levels. Take time to be positive each day, keep your to-do lists short, and spend more time working on solutions rather than worrying.
- Take a walk! Exercise is one of the best stress-busting activities a person can do. Working out affects a neurotransmitter that has an antidepressant-like effect in your brain while helping to decrease muscle tension. Exercise also guards against the adverse physical effects of stress. A simple walk or short run can help to protect your body when stress levels are high.
- Listen to music. Music soothes the mind and spirit, and there is evidence that music therapy can be beneficial both mentally and physically. When life becomes too stressful, take the time to put on your favorite music, relax and listen.
- Guided meditation has a number of beneficial effects on the mind and body, not only in the short term but also over a lifetime. This practice can help to reduce obsessive thoughts and sustain a restful and peaceful state of mind.
To schedule a consultation and hearing test, contact us today at Desert Valley Audiology. We are here to support you through the journey to better hearing.