Genetic predisposition, aging, and prolonged exposure to loud noise are all familiar factors that can contribute to hearing loss. However, you might find it intriguing to understand the connection between diabetes and hearing loss. Allow us to elaborate.
How does diabetes increase 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 rises with age. And if you’re dealing with diabetes, you’re two times 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 result in nerve damage across a variety of bodily areas, including the hands, feet, eyes, kidneys, and ears. The degeneration of the small blood vessels inside of your ears can be increased by high blood sugar levels. 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 result of both scenarios.
The lack of diabetes control causes persistent high blood pressure, leading to damage to the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, nerves, and eyes.
Signs you might have hearing loss
If you aren’t actively monitoring the state of your hearing, hearing loss can gradually sneak up on you. It’s not unusual for people around you to notice your hearing loss before you become aware of it.
Here are a few signs of hearing loss:
- Having a tough time hearing in loud places
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
- Perceiving others as mumbling
- Keeping the TV volume at a high level
- Difficulty hearing on the phone
If you experience any of these challenges or if somebody points out changes in your hearing, it’s worthwhile to consult with us. We will carry out a hearing exam that will establish a baseline for future assessments and also address any balance-related challenges.
Be proactive if your navigating diabetes
We encourage anybody with diabetes to get an annual hearing check.
Maintain control of your blood sugar levels.
Steer clear of loud noises and shield your ears by using earplugs.