You may be familiar with the various factors contributing to hearing loss, such as the impact of aging, genetic predisposition within families, or extended exposure to loud sounds. But the connection between hearing loss and diabetes isn’t as widely known. Let’s dig a little deeper into that.
How is your risk of experiencing hearing loss increased by diabetes?
The prevalence of diabetes increases as you get older, and 37 million people, or 9% of the United States population have this condition according to the CDC. Hearing loss is two times as prevalent in people with diabetes compared to people 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.
Various body regions can be affected by diabetes: kidneys, hands, feet, eyes, and even ears. High blood sugar levels can lead to the deterioration of small blood vessels and nerves in the inner ears. Conversely, low blood sugar levels can interrupt 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 due to uncontrolled diabetes.
Signs you might have hearing loss
If you’re not actively monitoring the state of your hearing, hearing loss can gradually sneak up on you. It’s not unusual for people around you to notice your hearing loss before you notice it.
Here are a few signs of hearing loss:
- Feeling like people are mumbling when they talk
- Constantly needing people to repeat what they said
- Always having to turn the volume up on your devices and TV
- Trouble following phone conversations
- Having a tough time hearing in noisy places
If you encounter any of these challenges or if somebody points out changes in your hearing, it’s essential to consult with us. We will conduct a hearing test that will establish a baseline for future assessments and also address any balance-related challenges.
If you have diabetes, be proactive
We encourage anybody with diabetes to get an annual hearing check.
Keep control of your blood sugar levels.
Steer clear of loud noises and safeguard your ears by wearing earplugs.