You may be familiar with the numerous aspects contributing to hearing loss, like the impact of aging, genetic predisposition within families, or prolonged exposure to loud noises. However, you may find it intriguing to understand the connection between diabetes and hearing loss. Let’s dig a little deeper into that.
How does diabetes raise your risk of hearing loss?
The prevalence of diabetes increases as you get older, and 37 million individuals, or 9% of the United States population, cope with this condition according to the CDC. And if you’re dealing with diabetes, you’re twice as likely to experience hearing loss. 133 million Americans are pre-diabetic and even they have a 30% higher risk of experiencing hearing loss than individuals whose blood sugar is normal.
Diabetes can cause nerve damage across various bodily areas, encompassing the hands, feet, eyes, kidneys, and ears. High blood sugar levels can lead to the deterioration 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 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 persistent high blood pressure resulting from unchecked diabetes.
You might have hearing loss if you detect any of these signs
Hearing loss frequently occurs gradually and can go undetected if you’re not actively paying attention. It’s not uncommon for people around you to observe your hearing loss before you become aware of it.
Here are a few signs of hearing loss:
- Having a hard time hearing in loud places
- Trouble hearing on the phone
- Perceiving others as mumbling
- Keeping the TV volume really loud
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
If you encounter any of these challenges or if someone points out changes in your hearing, it’s essential to consult with us. After doing a hearing screening, we will set up a baseline for future visits and help you with any issues you may be having with balance.
If you have diabetes, be proactive
Getting an annual hearing test is important, and that’s especially true for someone who has diabetes.
Maintain control of your blood sugar levels.
Utilize ear protection and steer clear of overly loud settings.
