You might be acquainted with the numerous aspects contributing to hearing loss, like the impact of aging, genetic predisposition within families, or extended exposure to loud sounds. However, you may find it interesting to discover the connection between diabetes and hearing loss. Let’s dig a little deeper into that.
How is your risk of experiencing hearing loss increased by diabetes?
As per the CDC, 9% or 37 million individuals in the United States are diagnosed with diabetes, and this prevalence increases with age. Hearing loss is twice as prevalent in people with diabetes in comparison to individuals without the condition. Even in pre-diabetics, constituting 133 million Americans, the degree of hearing loss is 30% higher than in individuals with normal blood sugar levels.
Various body areas can be affected by diabetes: kidneys, hands, feet, eyes, and even ears. The degeneration of the small blood vessels inside of your ears can be increased by high blood sugar levels. In contrast, low blood sugar levels can interrupt the transmission of nerve signals from the inner ear to the brain. Both situations can contribute to hearing loss.
The lack of diabetes control causes chronic high blood pressure, causing damage to the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, nerves, and eyes.
You may have hearing loss if you detect any of these signs
If you’re not actively monitoring the condition of your hearing, hearing loss can slowly sneak up on you. It’s not unusual for people close to you to notice your hearing loss before you become aware of it.
Some indicative signs of hearing loss include:
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
- Always having to turn the volume up on your devices and TV
- Trouble following phone conversations
- Struggling in noisy restaurants
- Perceiving others as mumbling
If you experience any of these difficulties or if someone points out changes in your hearing, it’s essential to consult with us. We will carry out a hearing examination that will establish a baseline for future assessments and also address any balance-related concerns.
Be proactive if your managing diabetes
Getting an annual hearing test is important, and that’s particularly true for somebody who has diabetes.
Keep your blood sugar levels within the desired range.
Utilize ear protection and avoid overly loud situations.