Genetic predisposition, aging, and extended exposure to loud sound are all common factors that can contribute to hearing loss. However, you may find it interesting to discover the link between diabetes and hearing impairment. 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. Hearing loss is twice as prevalent in individuals with diabetes in comparison to people who don’t have the condition. 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.
Diabetes can cause nerve damage across various bodily areas, encompassing the hands, feet, eyes, kidneys, and ears. The deterioration of the small blood vessels inside of your ears can be accelerated by high 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 result of both situations.
Damage to the kidneys, heart, nerves, eyes, and blood vessels can be caused by persistent high blood pressure due to uncontrolled diabetes.
You might have hearing loss if you detect any of these signs
Hearing loss frequently occurs slowly and can go undetected if you’re not actively paying attention. In many cases, friends and colleagues may observe the problem before you become aware of it.
Here are a few signs of hearing loss:
- Always having to turn the volume up on your devices and TV
- Difficulty hearing on the phone
- Having a tough time hearing in loud places
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
- Perceiving others as mumbling
If you notice any of these difficulties or if somebody points out changes in your hearing, it’s worthwhile to consult with us. We will conduct a hearing exam that will establish a baseline for future assessments and also deal with any balance-related concerns.
If you have diabetes, be proactive
We encourage anybody who has diabetes to get an annual hearing check.
Keep your blood sugar levels within the desired range.
Utilize ear protection and avoid overly loud situations.