Genetic predisposition, aging, and prolonged exposure to loud noise are all familiar factors that can contribute to hearing loss. However, you might find it intriguing to discover the link between diabetes and hearing loss. Allow us to elaborate.
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, have 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 a variety of bodily regions, including the hands, feet, eyes, kidneys, and 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. Worsened hearing loss can be the result of both scenarios.
The lack of diabetes management induces chronic high blood pressure, leading to damage to the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, nerves, and eyes.
Signs you might have hearing loss
Hearing loss frequently develops gradually and can go unnoticed if you aren’t actively paying attention. In many instances, friends and colleagues may detect the problem before you become aware of it.
Some suggestive signs of hearing loss include:
- Difficulty hearing on the phone
- Perceiving others as mumbling
- Regularly needing people to repeat what they said
- Having a tough time hearing in noisy places
- Keeping the TV volume really loud
It’s important to contact us for a consultation if you notice any of these signs or if someone points out your hearing changes. We will perform a hearing exam that will establish a baseline for future assessments and also address any balance-related concerns.
If you have diabetes, be proactive
Getting an annual hearing test is important, and that’s particularly true for somebody with diabetes.
Keep your blood sugar levels within the desired range.
Make use of ear protection and steer clear of overly loud situations.