Genetic predisposition, aging, and extended exposure to loud noise are all common factors that can contribute to hearing loss. However, you might find it intriguing to discover the connection between diabetes and hearing impairment. Let’s dig a little deeper into that.
How is your risk of developing hearing loss raised by diabetes?
As per the CDC, 9% or 37 million people in the United States are diagnosed with diabetes, and this prevalence rises with age. Hearing loss is twice as prevalent in people with diabetes in comparison to those without the condition. Even in pre-diabetics, constituting 133 million Americans, the rate of hearing loss is 30% higher than in people with normal blood sugar levels.
Diabetes can result in nerve damage across a variety of bodily areas, encompassing the hands, feet, eyes, kidneys, and ears. Elevated blood sugar levels can cause the deterioration of small blood vessels and nerves in the inner ears. 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 outcome of both scenarios.
Damage to the kidneys, heart, nerves, eyes, and blood vessels can be caused by chronic high blood pressure resulting from uncontrolled diabetes.
You might have hearing loss if you detect any of these signs
Hearing loss frequently occurs gradually and can go unnoticed if you aren’t actively paying attention. In many instances, friends and co-workers might notice the issue before you identify it.
Some indicative signs of hearing loss include:
- Perceiving others as mumbling
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
- Always having to crank up the volume of your devices and TV
- Struggling in noisy restaurants
- Trouble following phone conversations
It’s essential to contact us for a consultation if you experience any of these signs or if someone points out your hearing changes. After performing a hearing screening, we will establish a baseline for future visits and help you with any problems you may be having with balance.
Be proactive if your managing diabetes
Getting a yearly hearing test is important, and that’s particularly true for someone with diabetes.
Keep your blood sugar levels within the desired range.
Use ear protection and steer clear of overly loud situations.