Genetic predisposition, aging, and extended exposure to loud sound are all common factors that can contribute to hearing loss. However, you might find it intriguing to discover the link between diabetes and hearing loss. Let’s dig a little bit deeper into that.
How does diabetes increase your risk of hearing loss?
As per the CDC, 9% or 37 million individuals in the United States are diagnosed with diabetes, and this prevalence rises with age. And if you have diabetes, you’re two times as likely to experience hearing loss. Even in pre-diabetics, constituting 133 million Americans, the rate of hearing loss is 30% higher than in people with normal blood sugar levels.
A variety of body regions can be affected by diabetes: kidneys, hands, feet, eyes, and even ears. High blood sugar levels can cause the deterioration of small blood vessels and nerves in the inner ears. In contrast, 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.
Damage to the kidneys, heart, nerves, eyes, and blood vessels can be caused by chronic high blood pressure resulting from unchecked diabetes.
Signs you might be dealing with hearing loss
Hearing loss frequently develops slowly and can go unnoticed if you aren’t actively paying attention. In many situations, friends and colleagues may notice the issue before you identify it.
Here are a few signs of hearing loss:
- Perceiving others as mumbling
- Difficulty hearing on the phone
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
- Keeping the TV volume really loud
- Struggling in loud establishments
It’s important to contact us for a consultation if you observe any of these signs or if someone points out your hearing changes. We will perform a hearing test that will establish a baseline for future assessments and also deal with any balance-related challenges.
Be proactive if your navigating diabetes
Getting a yearly hearing exam is important, and that’s particularly true for somebody who has diabetes.
Keep your blood sugar levels within the desired range.
Steer clear of loud noises and safeguard your ears by wearing earplugs.