Pregnancy can be exciting, but the side effects can also be exhausting. In addition to the well-known symptoms such as fatigue, swelling and nausea, you can also experience tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and hearing loss. Tinnitus is especially common, affecting around one in three pregnant women compared to one in 10 women who aren’t pregnant.
According to one 2020 study, “The alteration of [hormones] in pregnant women can lead to several otological manifestations, including eustachian tube dysfunction, hearing impairment, otitis externa, Bell’s palsy, vertigo and tinnitus.”
Below we review some of the other ways pregnancy is connected to otological problems.
High Blood Pressure
The inner ears are very sensitive to changes in blood flow. Because of this, if you have high blood pressure during pregnancy, your hearing can be affected.
It’s important to note that high blood pressure in pregnant women is very dangerous, as it could indicate preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome, which are medical emergencies for both the mother and baby.
This is why, if you’re experiencing hearing problems like hearing loss or tinnitus, you should let your medical provider know right away, as it could be a sign of something serious.
Iron-Deficiency Anemia
Another condition pregnant women are at risk of developing is iron-deficiency anemia. If you don’t get enough iron from your diet, you don’t have enough of it to help your red blood cells carry oxygen to your auditory system, leading to otological problems.
Be sure to take your prenatal vitamins while you’re pregnant to prevent this condition, as well as eat iron-rich foods.
Headaches & Migraines
If you’re already prone to headaches or migraines, unfortunately, these are likely to increase during pregnancy. These conditions are also linked to hearing loss, tinnitus and even balance problems.
Mention it to your doctor if your headaches or migraines are getting worse. They can review treatment options with you.
For more information about the link between pregnancy and otological conditions, or to schedule an appointment with a hearing expert, call Valley Audiology today.
