Genetic predisposition, aging, and extended exposure to loud sound are all familiar factors that can contribute to hearing loss. However, you may find it interesting to understand the link between diabetes and hearing impairment. Let’s dig a little deeper into that.
How is your risk of developing 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. And if you’re dealing with diabetes, you’re two times as likely to develop 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 lead to the degeneration of small blood vessels and nerves in the inner ears. And on the other end of the spectrum, the transmission of nerve signals from the inner ear can be disrupted by low blood sugar. Both situations can worsen hearing loss.
Damage to the kidneys, heart, nerves, eyes, and blood vessels can be caused by chronic high blood pressure resulting from uncontrolled diabetes.
Signs you may be dealing with hearing loss
Hearing loss frequently happens slowly and can go undetected if you’re not actively paying attention. In many cases, friends and colleagues might detect the issue before you become aware of it.
Here are a few signs of hearing loss:
- Regularly needing people to repeat what they said
- Always needing to crank the volume up on your devices and TV
- Perceiving others as mumbling
- Trouble hearing on the phone
- Having a tough time hearing in loud places
It’s important to call us for a consultation if you experience any of these signs or if somebody points out your hearing changes. After performing a hearing exam, we will establish a baseline for future visits and help you with any problems you may be having with balance.
Be proactive if your navigating diabetes
We encourage all individuals with diabetes to get an annual hearing test.
Maintain control of your blood sugar levels.
Make use of ear protection and avoid overly loud settings.
