Genetic predisposition, aging, and prolonged exposure to loud sound are all common factors that can contribute to hearing loss. However, you might find it intriguing to understand the link between diabetes and hearing impairment. Let us elaborate.
How does diabetes increase your risk of hearing loss?
As per the CDC, 9% or 37 million people in the United States are diagnosed with diabetes, and this prevalence rises with age. And if you’re dealing with diabetes, you’re twice as likely to develop hearing loss. 133 million Americans are pre-diabetic and even they have a 30% increased risk of experiencing hearing loss than people whose blood sugar is normal.
Diabetes can result in nerve damage across a variety of bodily regions, encompassing the hands, feet, eyes, kidneys, and ears. Elevated blood sugar levels can cause 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 chronic high blood pressure resulting from uncontrolled diabetes.
Signs you may be dealing with hearing loss
If you’re not actively monitoring the state of your hearing, hearing loss can gradually sneak up on you. In many cases, friends and colleagues may detect the issue before you identify it.
Some indicative signs of hearing loss include:
- Feeling like people are mumbling when they talk
- Having a hard time hearing in loud places
- Keeping the TV volume really loud
- Trouble hearing on the phone
- 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 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 a yearly hearing exam is important, and that’s particularly true for someone with diabetes.
Keep your blood sugar levels within the desired range.
Use ear protection and steer clear of overly loud situations.
