Effects of primary arterial hypertension on cochlear function

Background Hypertension (HT) is one of the most common chronic diseases. The existing literature on HT and hearing contains conflicting results, and no consensus has been reached yet. Objectives This study aimed to investigate cochlear function in hypertensive and normotensive groups. Methods This study was conducted on 34 patients with primary HT and 17 healthy adults. The Cochlear function was assessed with conventional audiometry (0.125-8 kHz), ultra-high frequency audiometry (10-16 kHz), the transient evoked otoacoustic emission (TEOAE) test, and the distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) test. Results Hearing thresholds at 8, 10, 12.5, 14, and 16 kHz were significantly poorer in the HT group than in the control group (p < .05). There was no significant difference in the mean conventional thresholds between the groups. Compared to the control group, the patient group exhibited statistically significant lower amplitudes of TEOAE and DPOAE. Conclusion This study demonstrated significantly poorer high-frequency hearing and lower otoacoustic emission amplitudes for adults with HT. Impairment in hearing thresholds associated with HT begins at ultra-high frequencies in the cochlea. HT may be a potential risk factor for the development of hearing loss; therefore, individuals with HT should be screened for auditory function.