Genetic predisposition, aging, and extended exposure to loud noise are all familiar factors that can contribute to hearing loss. However, you might find it intriguing to understand the connection between diabetes and hearing impairment. Let’s dig a little bit 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 individuals, or 9% of the United States population, cope with this condition according to the CDC. And if you have diabetes, you’re twice 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.
Diabetes can result in nerve damage across various bodily regions, encompassing the hands, feet, eyes, kidneys, and ears. Elevated blood sugar levels can cause the deterioration of small blood vessels and nerves in the inner ears. Conversely, low blood sugar levels can disrupt the transmission of nerve signals from the inner ear to the brain. Worsened hearing loss can be the outcome of both scenarios.
The lack of diabetes control causes persistent high blood pressure, leading to damage to the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, nerves, and eyes.
Signs you may have hearing loss
If you’re not actively monitoring the state of your hearing, hearing loss can slowly sneak up on you. In many instances, friends and colleagues may observe the issue before you become aware of it.
Here are a few signs of hearing loss:
- Difficulty hearing on the phone
- Always needing to turn up the volume of your devices and TV
- Feeling like people are mumbling when they talk
- Struggling in noisy restaurants
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
If you encounter any of these difficulties or if someone points out changes in your hearing, it’s worthwhile to consult with us. We will perform a hearing test that will establish a baseline for future assessments and also address any balance-related concerns.
If you have diabetes, be proactive
We encourage anyone who has diabetes to get a yearly hearing check.
Maintain your blood sugar levels within the desired range.
Utilize ear protection and steer clear of overly loud settings.