February is American Heart Month

Why Patients with Cardiovascular Conditions Should Get Regular Hearing Tests

February is Heart Month, an important time to pay attention to heart health. But did you know that hearing loss is correlated with heart disease?
As healthcare professionals, it’s important to understand the connection between cardiovascular conditions and hearing loss.
Read on to learn more about why patients with heart conditions should get regular hearing tests from a hearing professional.

The Link Between Cardiovascular Conditions and Hearing Loss

Recent research has shown a link between cardiovascular conditions like hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes, and the risk of developing hearing loss. In fact, studies have found that people with these conditions are twice as likely to develop hearing loss as those without them.
Additionally, people with coronary artery disease (CAD) are three times as likely to suffer from hearing issues compared to those without CAD.

Why Does This Matter?

Hearing tests can detect the early stages of cardiovascular disease before other symptoms appear—often years before they would otherwise be detected. Getting regular hearing tests can be a vital part of preventive healthcare for someone who suffers from one or more of these conditions. Early diagnosis gives patients access to treatments that could mitigate their risk of further complications or even save their lives.

What Can Healthcare Professionals Do?

Healthcare professionals should educate their patients about the importance of getting regular hearing tests in addition to other preventive measures such as quitting smoking, maintaining healthy blood pressure levels, and engaging in regular physical activity. Encouraging patients who suffer from cardiovascular conditions to get annual check-ups at a local audiologist will help them stay ahead of any potential problems related to their condition.
It’s essential for medical professionals to take a proactive approach when it comes to treating patients with cardiovascular conditions by including regular audiological assessments in their preventative care plan. Recognizing the correlation between heart health and hearing health can help ensure patients get the proper care they need before problems become serious or irreversible.
During this Heart Month, make sure your patients know why they should schedule regular appointments at an audiologist office if they suffer from any type of heart disease or condition. Or, better yet, offer professional hearing tests at the point of care where patients are more likely to get them done!
Physicians Hearing Network can serve as an extension of your care team, providing audiology services at the point of care from licensed professionals. Our services are provided at no cost to the practice and generate additional ancillary revenue.
If you would like to see if your practice qualifies, contact us today