Determination of prevalence, risk factors and patterns of hearing loss among the elderly with hypertension in Ibadan, Oyo state, Nigeria

Abstract

Reduced hearing sensitivity among the elderly has been attributed to some risk factors and influence of age-related degenerative conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease, bipolar disorder and hypertension. Hearing loss, especially the age-related type (presbycusis), has been reported as one of the global burdens affecting the general well-being and quality of life of the elderly with hypertension. Thus, hearing loss has been observed to be associated with hypertension and functional decline in elderly, as this condition makes them experience poor communication, fatigue, reduced social functions, mood -swing and withdrawal syndrome. Emerging research outcomes indicate a strong relationship between hypertension and reduced auditory performance among the elderly. Therefore, this study determined the prevalence, types and patterns of hearing loss associated with hypertension, in a bid to suggest comprehensive management strategies and a model of creating awareness towards promoting good healthy living among the elderly in Nigeria. One hundred and seventy two elderly, aged 65 - 85 with hypertension were purposively selected from patients undergoing treatment for hypertension in some tertiary hospitals in Ibadan, Nigeria for the study. Participants were subjected to Pure-Tone Audiometry (PTA) through the use of Maico 53 Diagnostic Audiometer to determine the degrees, types and patterns of hearing loss among the elderly with hypertension. Results showed that 148 (86.05%) elderly patients with hypertension presented with different degrees, types and patterns of hearing loss. Out of this number, 123 (83.1%) presented with bilateral hearing loss, while 25 (16.89%) had unilateral hearing loss. Degree of hearing loss, 74 moderate hearing loss, 118 moderately severe and 50 severe hearing loss. 36% of the hearing loss appeared as flat audiometric configuration, 24% were slopping, 19. 0 % were rising, while 21% were tough-shaped audiometric configurations. The findings showed high prevalence of hearing loss among the elderly with hypertension in Ibadan, Nigeria. Based on the findings, management of the elderly with hypertension should include regular audiological rehabilitation and total adherence to hearing conservation principles, otological management, regulation of blood pressure and adequate counselling and follow-up services.