Genetic predisposition, aging, and extended exposure to loud noise are all familiar factors that can contribute to hearing loss. However, you may find it interesting to discover the connection between diabetes and hearing loss. Let’s dig a little bit deeper into that.
How does diabetes raise 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 increases with age. Hearing loss is twice as prevalent in people with diabetes in comparison to those without the condition. 133 million Americans are pre-diabetic and even they have a 30% higher risk of experiencing hearing loss than individuals whose blood sugar is normal.
Diabetes can result in nerve damage across a variety of bodily areas, encompassing the hands, feet, eyes, kidneys, and 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 worsen hearing loss.
Damage to the kidneys, heart, nerves, eyes, and blood vessels can be caused by chronic high blood pressure due to unchecked diabetes.
Signs you might have hearing loss
Hearing loss frequently happens gradually and can go undetected if you’re not actively paying attention. In many situations, friends and colleagues may notice the issue before you identify it.
Some suggestive signs of hearing loss include:
- Difficulty following phone conversations
- Keeping the TV volume really loud
- Struggling in loud establishments
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
- Perceiving others as mumbling
It’s essential 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 test, we will establish a baseline for future visits and help you with any issues you may be having with balance.
Be proactive if your managing diabetes
We encourage anyone who has diabetes to get an annual hearing check.
Maintain control of your blood sugar levels.
Avoid loud noises and shield your ears by wearing earplugs.