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Although hairs in the ears or fine wrinkles around the auricles are considered a normal part of the human body, they can also be closely related to heart health. In most cases hair in the ears is not a reason for concern; it can only block the ear canal and thus worsen hearing. In combination with an unusual wrinkle on the ear, however, they can already herald a bad sign.
Increased risk of heart attack
According to studies, these two signs may be closely linked. Even the wrinkle itself can be a harbinger of a heart attack and the development of heart disease. In 1973 Dr. Sanders T. Frank and his team found that an oblique fold of the earlobe accompanied by excess hairs inside the ear indicates coronary artery disease. Since then other researchers have tried to confirm these conclusions.
The results are striking. About 40 different studies have connected these signs with an increased risk of ischemic heart disease and other fatal cardiovascular conditions. Scientists also examined people who died of heart disease and had exactly such a characteristic groove on the ear. It was found that patients with a crease on the earlobe have a higher likelihood of a heart attack than patients without one.
The so-called Frank sign
The crease on the earlobe is sometimes also called – after its discoverer – the Frank sign. The crease is usually diagonal. If you notice such a crease on yourself, you should be more cautious, or have a professional examination to determine whether heart problems are already appearing. Sometimes it is only an aesthetic issue, but early detection can save your life.
The crease on the ear is not the only wrinkle we should watch. For example, an excessively wrinkled face regardless of age can indicate high blood pressure. Among other things, deep wrinkles can signify an increased risk of osteoporosis, since the amount of collagen in the skin and in the bones is closely related. Wrinkles and sagging skin are also signs of excessive stress or consuming large amounts of sugar.
