Genetic predisposition, aging, and extended exposure to loud noise are all familiar factors that can contribute to hearing loss. However, you might find it interesting to discover the connection between diabetes and hearing loss. Let’s dig a little deeper into that.
How does diabetes increase 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 twice as likely to experience hearing loss. Even in pre-diabetics, constituting 133 million Americans, the degree of hearing loss is 30% higher than in individuals with normal blood sugar levels.
A variety of body areas can be impacted by diabetes: kidneys, hands, feet, eyes, and even ears. Elevated blood sugar levels can lead to the deterioration of small blood vessels and nerves in the inner ears. In contrast, 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, causing damage to the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, nerves, and eyes.
Signs you may be dealing with hearing loss
If you’re not actively monitoring the state of your hearing, hearing loss can slowly sneak up on you. In many cases, friends and colleagues might detect the issue before you become aware of it.
Some suggestive signs of hearing loss include:
- Struggling in loud restaurants
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
- Keeping the TV volume at a high level
- Trouble hearing on the phone
- Perceiving others as mumbling
It’s important to call us for a consultation if you experience any of these signs or if somebody points out your hearing changes. After carrying out a hearing screening, we will establish 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 anyone who has diabetes to get a yearly hearing test.
Maintain your blood sugar levels within the desired range.
Steer clear of loud noises and protect your ears by using earplugs.