You may be acquainted with the various factors contributing to hearing loss, including the impact of aging, genetic predisposition within families, or extended exposure to loud noises. However, you might find it interesting to discover the connection between diabetes and hearing impairment. Let us elaborate.
How is your risk of developing hearing loss increased by diabetes?
As per the CDC, 9% or 37 million individuals in the United States are diagnosed with diabetes, and this prevalence increases with age. And if you’re dealing with diabetes, you’re two times as likely to develop hearing loss. 133 million Americans are pre-diabetic and even they have a 30% higher risk of experiencing hearing loss than people 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 elevated blood sugar levels. 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 scenarios.
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
If you’re not actively monitoring the state of your hearing, hearing loss can gradually sneak up on you. In many cases, friends and co-workers might detect the problem before you identify it.
Some suggestive signs of hearing loss include:
- Feeling as if people are mumbling when they talk
- Keeping the TV volume really loud
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
- Difficulty following phone conversations
- Having a difficult time hearing in loud places
If you notice any of these difficulties or if someone points out changes in your hearing, it’s worthwhile to consult with us. After doing a hearing test, we will establish a baseline for future visits and help you with any issues you might be having with balance.
If you have diabetes, be proactive
Getting an annual hearing test is important, and that’s particularly true for somebody with diabetes.
Keep control of your blood sugar levels.
Steer clear of loud noises and shield your ears by wearing earplugs.
