You may be acquainted with the various factors contributing to hearing loss, such as the impact of aging, genetic predisposition within families, or extended exposure to loud noises. But the connection between hearing loss and diabetes isn’t as widely known. Let us elaborate.
How does diabetes raise your risk of hearing loss?
The prevalence of diabetes increases as you get older, and 37 million people, or 9% of the United States population, cope with this condition according to the CDC. And if you’re dealing with diabetes, you’re two times as likely to develop hearing loss. Even in pre-diabetics, constituting 133 million Americans, the degree of hearing loss is 30% higher than in individuals with normal blood sugar levels.
Various body regions can be affected by diabetes: kidneys, hands, feet, eyes, and even ears. The deterioration of the small blood vessels inside of your ears can be increased by high 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 contribute to hearing loss.
The lack of diabetes control induces chronic high blood pressure, causing damage to the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, nerves, and eyes.
Signs you might have hearing loss
Hearing loss often develops gradually and can go undetected if you’re not actively paying attention. It’s not uncommon for people around you to notice your hearing loss before you become aware of it.
Here are a few signs of hearing loss:
- Struggling in loud establishments
- Always having to turn up the volume of your devices and TV
- Difficulty hearing on the phone
- Regularly needing people to repeat what they said
- Perceiving others as mumbling
If you notice any of these challenges or if somebody points out changes in your hearing, it’s worthwhile to consult with us. After doing a hearing examination, we will establish a baseline for future visits and help you with any problems you may be having with balance.
Be proactive if your navigating diabetes
We encourage anyone who has diabetes to get an annual hearing check.
Maintain your blood sugar levels within the desired range.
Steer clear of loud noises and shield your ears by using earplugs.
