People are often unaware that hearing loss can be triggered by chronic stress. Even though stress is often an inevitable part of our lives, we can learn effective ways to handle stress so that it does not contribute to health problems and conditions such as hearing loss. The manner in which stress negatively impacts hearing is by increasing the flow of adrenaline which subsequently decreases the flow of oxygen-enriched blood supply to the ears. This lack of proper blood circulation can damage the delicate hair follicles within the inner ear, thereby resulting in hearing loss.
Due to the negative impact that stress has on our overall health, it is vital that we learn effective methods of coping with stress so that we do not have to suffer any detrimental effects such as hearing loss. It is important to start off with a concrete, tangible, and measurable plan rather than a vague one. When making a plan to reduce stress, start off with identifying the areas in your life you find most stressful. After this, move on to brainstorming ideas about changes you can make to tackle these stressors. Some helpful relaxation techniques include yoga, listening to soft soothing music, deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery.
Another effective method of coping with stress is to include an exercise routine as part of your daily schedule. Even a half an hour walk and do wonders in reducing stress by increasing the flow of endorphins which help bring about a sense of well-being.
Make sure you take time out for yourself so that you can reconnect with your friends and family. Find ways you can increase the amount of social interaction you have in your daily life. Go out with friends more often, to a restaurant, the beach, hiking, trekking, or engage in other pleasurable activities.
One of the most basic parts that people do not realize affect the whole body is breathing. We take our breathing for granted and most of the time, it is lack of proper breathing that results in stress and panic attacks. That breathless feeling that you may have at times when stressed, that feeling of pressure in your chest, the feeling of dizziness or headaches, these can all be signs of inadequate breathing methods. Whenever you feel stressed, just stop what you are doing and take a long, deep breath through your nostrils. Feel the breath flowing into your diaphragm muscles as you feel your stomach expand. Allow the breath to fill you up and hold it for two seconds and then exhale. This simple breathing exercise can work wonders in alleviating stress instantly.
Stress can become a simple visitor in your life; it does not have to control you. You have the means of taking care of yourself by learning effective methods to deal with stress. If you feel that you need extra help, take out time for a psychotherapy session so that you can talk to a mental health professional about learning effective relaxation techniques to lower your stress levels.