You might be familiar with the various factors contributing to hearing loss, such as the impact of getting older, genetic predisposition within families, or extended exposure to loud sounds. But the connection between hearing loss and diabetes is not as widely known. 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, have this condition according to the CDC. And if you’re dealing with diabetes, you’re two times as likely to experience 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.
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 elevated blood sugar levels. Conversely, low blood sugar levels can interrupt 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 uncontrolled diabetes.
You might have hearing loss if you notice any of these signs
Hearing loss often occurs slowly and can go unnoticed if you aren’t actively paying attention. It’s not unusual for people close to you to observe your hearing loss before you become aware of it.
Here are a few signs of hearing loss:
- Having a difficult time hearing in noisy places
- Feeling as if people are mumbling when they speak
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
- Trouble hearing on the phone
- Always having to turn the volume up on your devices and TV
It’s essential to contact us for a consultation if you observe any of these signs or if someone points out your hearing changes. After carrying out a hearing screening, we will set up a baseline for future visits and help you with any issues you may be having with balance.
Be proactive if you have diabetes
Getting a yearly hearing exam is important, and that’s particularly true for somebody with diabetes.
Keep your blood sugar levels within the desired range.
Avoid loud noises and shield your ears by wearing earplugs.
The content of this blog is the intellectual property of MedPB.com and is reprinted here with permission.
The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive a personalized free hearing test and hearing loss consultation, call today to set up an appointment.
