Genetic predisposition, aging, and extended exposure to loud sound are all familiar factors that can contribute to hearing loss. But the connection between hearing loss and diabetes is not as well known. Let’s dig a little deeper into that.
How is your risk of developing hearing loss raised 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 degree of hearing loss is 30% higher than in individuals with normal blood sugar levels.
Various body areas can be impacted by diabetes: kidneys, hands, feet, eyes, and even ears. The degeneration of the small blood vessels inside of your ears can be increased by high blood sugar levels. And on the other end of the spectrum, the transmission of nerve signals from the inner ear can be interrupted by low blood sugar. Both scenarios 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.
You might have hearing loss if you notice any of these signs
Hearing loss often occurs gradually and can go unnoticed if you aren’t actively paying attention. In many cases, friends and colleagues might detect the issue before you become aware of it.
Some suggestive signs of hearing loss include:
- Constantly needing people to repeat what they said
- Trouble hearing on the phone
- Having a hard time hearing in noisy places
- Feeling as if people are mumbling when they speak
- Always having to crank the volume up on your devices and TV
If you experience any of these challenges or if someone points out changes in your hearing, it’s worthwhile to consult with us. After performing a hearing examination, we will set up a baseline for future visits and help you with any problems you may be having with balance.
If you have diabetes, be proactive
We encourage all individuals with diabetes to get an annual hearing test.
Keep your blood sugar levels within the desired range.
Avoid loud noises and safeguard your ears by using earplugs.
