Genetic predisposition, aging, and prolonged exposure to loud noise are all common factors that can contribute to hearing loss. But the connection between hearing loss and diabetes isn’t as well known. 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 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 developing hearing loss than individuals whose blood sugar is normal.
A variety of body regions can be impacted by diabetes: kidneys, hands, feet, eyes, and even ears. The deterioration of the small blood vessels inside of your ears can be accelerated by high blood sugar levels. And on the other end of the spectrum, the transmission of nerve signals from the inner ear can be interrupted by low blood sugar. Worsened hearing loss can be the outcome of both situations.
Damage to the kidneys, heart, nerves, eyes, and blood vessels can be caused by persistent high blood pressure resulting from unchecked diabetes.
You may have hearing loss if you detect any of these signs
Hearing loss frequently occurs slowly and can go unnoticed if you’re not actively paying attention. In many situations, friends and co-workers might detect the issue before you become aware of it.
Here are a few signs of hearing loss:
- Feeling as if people are mumbling when they talk
- Always needing to crank up the volume of your devices and TV
- Difficulty hearing on the phone
- Struggling in noisy establishments
- Constantly needing people to repeat what they said
If you notice any of these challenges or if somebody points out changes in your hearing, it’s worthwhile to consult with us. After carrying out a hearing examination, we will set up a baseline for future visits and help you with any issues you might be having with balance.
Be proactive if your managing diabetes
We encourage anybody who has diabetes to get an annual hearing check.
Maintain control of your blood sugar levels.
Steer clear of loud noises and safeguard your ears by wearing earplugs.