You may be acquainted with the numerous aspects contributing to hearing loss, including the impact of getting older, genetic predisposition within families, or prolonged exposure to loud sounds. However, you may find it interesting to understand the connection between diabetes and hearing loss. Let us elaborate.
How does diabetes raise your risk of hearing loss?
The prevalence of diabetes increases as you get older, and 37 million people, or 9% of the United States population, cope with this condition according to the CDC. Hearing loss is twice as prevalent in individuals with diabetes compared to those who don’t have the condition. 133 million Americans are pre-diabetic and even they have a 30% increased risk of developing hearing loss than individuals whose blood sugar is normal.
Diabetes can cause nerve damage across various bodily areas, including the hands, feet, eyes, kidneys, and ears. The deterioration of the small blood vessels inside of your ears can be accelerated by high blood sugar levels. In contrast, low blood sugar levels can interrupt the transmission of nerve signals from the inner ear to the brain. Both situations can worsen hearing loss.
The lack of diabetes control induces persistent high blood pressure, leading to damage to the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, nerves, and eyes.
You may have hearing loss if you detect any of these signs
Hearing loss frequently occurs slowly and can go undetected if you’re not actively paying attention. It’s not uncommon for people close to you to notice your hearing loss before you become aware of it.
Some suggestive signs of hearing loss include:
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
- Feeling as if people are mumbling when they speak
- Keeping the TV volume really loud
- Difficulty hearing on the phone
- Having a hard time hearing in loud places
If you encounter any of these difficulties or if somebody points out changes in your hearing, it’s important to consult with us. After carrying out a hearing test, 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 anyone with diabetes to get a yearly hearing test.
Maintain control of your blood sugar levels.
Steer clear of loud noises and shield your ears by wearing earplugs.