Genetic predisposition, aging, and extended exposure to loud noise are all familiar factors that can contribute to hearing loss. However, you may find it intriguing to understand 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 people in the United States are diagnosed with diabetes, and this prevalence rises with age. And if you have diabetes, you’re twice as likely to develop hearing loss. Even in pre-diabetics, constituting 133 million Americans, the rate of hearing loss is 30% higher than in individuals with normal blood sugar levels.
Various body regions can be impacted by diabetes: kidneys, hands, feet, eyes, and even ears. Elevated blood sugar levels can cause the degeneration of small blood vessels and nerves in the inner ears. In contrast, low blood sugar levels can interrupt the transmission of nerve signals from the inner ear to the brain. Worsened hearing loss can be the result of both situations.
The lack of diabetes management triggers persistent high blood pressure, causing damage to the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, nerves, and eyes.
You may have hearing loss if you notice any of these signs
If you aren’t actively monitoring the state of your hearing, hearing loss can gradually sneak up on you. It’s not uncommon for people around you to notice your hearing loss before you notice it.
Some suggestive signs of hearing loss include:
- Struggling in loud establishments
- Feeling like people are mumbling when they talk
- Difficulty hearing on the phone
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
- Keeping the TV volume really loud
If you encounter any of these challenges or if someone points out changes in your hearing, it’s worthwhile to consult with us. After carrying out a hearing test, we will establish a baseline for future visits and help you with any issues you may be having with balance.
If you have diabetes, be proactive
We encourage all individuals who has diabetes to get an annual hearing check.
Keep control of your blood sugar levels.
Avoid loud noises and shield your ears by wearing earplugs.
