Did you know your cardiovascular health is linked to hearing health? 

It’s true!

Our ears are extremely sensitive to blood flow and the oxygen it delivers. However, the veins and arteries that supply our ears with oxygen are very small, so any disruptions to the delivery of oxygen can quickly impact our hearing.

As with many areas in health, we are rapidly learning about the interconnectedness of our bodies. What impacts one aspect of our overall health, impacts many other aspects. Our ears are no exception.

Within the organ of hearing (also known as the Cochlea) sits the Stria Vascularis.

This is a very important part of the hearing mechanism. Not only does it create the fluid that facilitates neural stimulation in the ear, it is the point where oxygen-rich blood enters the cochlea. If there is any disruption to blood flow, the Stria Vascularis is the first part of the ear that suffers.

It’s one part of the Why-we-lose-our-hearing-as-we-age theory.

Long story short, keep up with your heart-healthy activities – it’ll help keep your hearing healthy too.

If you are keen to check on your hearing – book in for a hearing check with your local Audiologist or ask your doctor for a referral.

This article contributed by Dr Teresa Burns, Audiologist/ Director of Teresa Burns Hearing Ltd in Auckland, New Zealand.

+64 (09) 475 9849 or  teresaburnshearing.co.nz