Genetic predisposition, aging, and prolonged exposure to loud sound are all familiar factors that can contribute to hearing loss. However, you may find it interesting to understand the connection between diabetes and hearing impairment. Let’s dig a little bit deeper into that.
How does diabetes raise your risk of hearing loss?
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 twice as likely to develop hearing loss. Even in pre-diabetics, constituting 133 million Americans, the rate of hearing loss is 30% higher than in individuals with normal blood sugar levels.
A variety of body areas 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. Conversely, low blood sugar levels can disrupt the transmission of nerve signals from the inner ear to the brain. Worsened hearing loss can be the outcome of both scenarios.
Damage to the kidneys, heart, nerves, eyes, and blood vessels can be caused by persistent high blood pressure resulting from unchecked diabetes.
Signs you might have hearing loss
Hearing loss frequently develops slowly and can go undetected if you aren’t actively paying attention. It’s not uncommon for people close to you to observe your hearing loss before you become aware of it.
Here are a few signs of hearing loss:
- Perceiving others as mumbling
- Struggling in loud establishments
- Always having to crank up the volume of your devices and TV
- Trouble following phone conversations
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
It’s essential to call us for a consultation if you notice any of these signs or if somebody points out your hearing changes. After carrying out a hearing examination, we will set up a baseline for future visits and help you with any problems you might be having with balance.
If you have diabetes, be proactive
We encourage all individuals who has diabetes to get an annual hearing check.
Keep your blood sugar levels within the desired range.
Use ear protection and avoid overly loud settings.