The Heart-Hearing Connection: Understanding the Role of Anxiety During Heart Health Month
by Envoy Medical Staff Member, on February 2, 2025
February is American Heart Heart Month. Heart disease has remained the leading cause of death in the United States for many years. In the U.S., a person succumbs to cardiovascular disease every 34 seconds. Hearing loss is more than a minor inconvenience—it ranks as the third most prevalent chronic health condition in the United States and can greatly affect a person's quality of life. It often develops gradually and can be influenced by factors such as age, genetics, and underlying health issues. Interestingly, anxiety affects both conditions and individuals with hearing loss experience significantly higher rates of anxiety compared to the general population.
The Heart-Hearing Connection
Research has demonstrated a correlation between hearing loss and cardiovascular health, highlighting the importance of a healthy cardiovascular system for maintaining good hearing. The inner ear depends on consistent blood flow to operate effectively. When this blood flow is disrupted by conditions such as high blood pressure or atherosclerosis (the narrowing of arteries), it can cause damage to the sensitive structures of the inner ear, leading to sensorineural hearing loss.
A recent study conducted in China and published in the Journal of the American Heart Association in October 2024 indicates that older adults experiencing difficulties with vision, hearing, or both may have a higher likelihood of suffering a stroke or heart attack compared to those with normal eyesight and hearing. Researchers analyzed survey data from 11,332 participants aged 45 and older who had no prior history of cardiovascular disease. In 2011, participants provided self-reports of their hearing and vision. They were followed for 7 years. Compared to those without sensory issues, individuals with only vision problems had a 24% higher chance of developing cardiovascular disease, while those with only hearing loss had a 20% higher risk. Participants with both hearing and vision impairments faced a 35% increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
The Impact of Stress and Anxiety on Hearing Loss and Heart Disease
Stress is the body's response to external pressures, such as work demands or life changes. It's typically short-lived, subsiding once the stressor is removed. Symptoms can include headache, muscle tension, fatigue, irritability and frustration. While stress can drive motivation and improve performance, chronic stress can be detrimental to health.
Anxiety, on the other hand, involves ongoing worry or fear without a specific cause, often linked to internal thoughts. It can be long-lasting and may require professional intervention. Symptoms include nervousness, restlessness, and a sense of impending doom, along with physical signs like a rapid heartbeat. While mild anxiety can be advantageous, chronic anxiety can disrupt daily life.
People with hearing loss have higher rates of anxiety. Studies have shown that individuals with even mild hearing impairment face a 32% higher risk of reporting anxiety. For those with moderate to severe hearing loss, the likelihood of experiencing anxiety increases significantly, with a 59% higher chance of anxiety symptoms.
Although both anxiety and stress can adversely affect heart health, anxiety often has a more prolonged and intense impact because of its chronic nature and related behavioral issues, such as smoking, drinking, overeating, isolating, limited physical activity, and its connection to other mental health problems like depression, which can further worsen cardiac conditions.
Research has shown that anxiety disorders can contribute to the development and progression of heart disease. Anxiety can cause physical changes in the body, such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and higher levels of stress hormones like cortisol. Over time, these changes can negatively affect heart health and increase the risk of conditions like coronary artery disease and heart failure.
Individuals with hearing loss may face frustration and fear due to communication difficulties, leading to increased anxiety. Anxiety can cause physical changes like increased heart rate, affecting hearing. Chronic stress and anxiety may result in tinnitus, heightening sound sensitivity. Untreated hearing loss can cause social isolation, raising anxiety and depression risks. The mental effort of processing sounds can lead to fatigue and anxiety, especially in new or social settings.
How to Manage Anxiety
- Practice Mindfulness and Meditation
Mindfulness and meditation help reduce anxious thoughts through techniques like deep breathing, guided meditation, and muscle relaxation. - Exercise Regularly
Physical activity reduces anxiety by releasing mood-boosting endorphins. Walking, jogging, yoga, and swimming are helpful. - Maintain a Healthy Diet
A balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports well-being. Limit caffeine and sugar to reduce anxiety. - Get Enough Sleep
Good sleep hygiene is key for anxiety management. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep with a regular schedule and calming routine. - Limit Alcohol and Avoid Tobacco
Alcohol and tobacco can worsen anxiety over time. Reducing or eliminating them improves mental health. - Stay Connected
Social support is crucial for anxiety management. Stay in touch with loved ones and consider support groups or online communities. - Practice Self-Care
Engage in relaxing activities you enjoy, like reading or gardening, to reduce stress and anxiety. - Set Realistic Goals
Break tasks into smaller steps and set achievable goals to reduce overwhelm and boost accomplishment. - Learn to Say No
Recognize your limits and avoid overcommitting to manage stress and anxiety. - Consider Professional Help
If anxiety is overwhelming, seek help from a mental health professional. Therapy, counseling, or medication may be recommended.
Living with hearing loss increases our vulnerability to various other health issues. Intentionally addressing anxiety is crucial for managing both your hearing health and overall well-being.