You may be familiar with the numerous factors contributing to hearing loss, including the impact of getting older, genetic predisposition within families, or prolonged exposure to loud noises. However, you might find it intriguing to understand the connection between diabetes and hearing impairment. Let us elaborate.
How does diabetes raise your risk of hearing loss?
As per the CDC, 9% or 37 million people in the United States are diagnosed with diabetes, and this prevalence increases with age. Hearing loss is two times as prevalent in individuals with diabetes compared to individuals without the condition. Even in pre-diabetics, constituting 133 million Americans, the rate of hearing loss is 30% higher than in people with normal blood sugar levels.
Diabetes can cause nerve damage across various bodily areas, including the hands, feet, eyes, kidneys, and ears. The deterioration of the small blood vessels inside of your ears can be accelerated by elevated blood sugar levels. Conversely, low blood sugar levels can disrupt the transmission of nerve signals from the inner ear to the brain. Both situations can worsen hearing loss.
Damage to the kidneys, heart, nerves, eyes, and blood vessels can be caused by chronic high blood pressure resulting from uncontrolled diabetes.
You might have hearing loss if you notice any of these signs
Hearing loss frequently occurs gradually and can go undetected if you’re not actively paying attention. It’s not unusual for people close to you to observe your hearing loss before you notice it.
Some suggestive signs of hearing loss include:
- Struggling in noisy establishments
- Regularly needing people to repeat what they said
- Keeping the TV volume at a high level
- Perceiving others as mumbling
- Trouble hearing on the phone
It’s essential to contact us for a consultation if you observe any of these signs or if somebody points out your hearing changes. After performing a hearing exam, we will set up a baseline for future visits and help you with any problems you may be having with balance.
Be proactive if you have diabetes
Getting an annual hearing exam is important, and that’s especially true for someone who has diabetes.
Keep your blood sugar levels within the desired range.
Steer clear of loud noises and shield your ears by using earplugs.
