Can Diabetes Lead to Hearing Loss? The Surprising Connection
Diabetes is a chronic health condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Diabetes affects various organs like, heart, eyes, kidneys & blood vessels, but it can also contribute to hearing loss. Research shows the connection between diabetes and hearing loss, making it important for individuals with diabetes to be aware of this risk.
The Connection Between Diabetes and Hearing Loss
People with diabetes have a higher risk of developing hearing loss due to changes in the blood vessels and nerves that play a crucial role in hearing. People with prediabetes also have a higher risk of developing hearing loss. The mechanism is not entirely understood, but there are several factors that contribute to the increased risk of hearing loss in diabetics:
Damage to Blood Vessels & Poor Blood Circulation: Diabetes results in impaired blood circulation. High blood sugar levels cause damage to blood vessels, including those supplying the inner ear. Damage to these smaller blood vessels of the inner ear, reduces blood flow to the cochlea and results in hearing impairment.
Nerve Damage (Neuropathy): Diabetes affects the nerves, leading to a condition called diabetic neuropathy. When the auditory nerve gets affected due to high blood sugar levels and poor circulation, it interferes with the transmission of sound signals from the ear to the brain, leading to hearing impairment.
Chronic Inflammation: Diabetes is associated with increased inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation can affect various organs, including the ear. This inflammation impacts the structures of the ear, mainly the cochlea, leading to hearing loss over a period of time.
Metabolic Changes: Elevated blood glucose levels can affect the metabolism of the inner ear by altering the way the body utilises certain nutrients and chemicals needed for proper auditory function, leading to hearing impairment.
The Prevalence of Hearing Loss in Diabetics
Research has shown that the prevalence of hearing impairment is much higher in people with diabetes. According to the study published by the American Diabetes Association, adults with diabetes are twice as likely to experience hearing loss as those without the condition. In fact, hearing loss is seen as an early complication of diabetes, even before other diabetic complications develop. The risk of hearing loss is higher in individuals with poorly controlled diabetes compared to those with well-managed blood sugar levels. So, it is very important to maintain stable blood sugar levels to prevent complications.
Recognising the Symptoms
Hearing loss in diabetics often develops gradually, making it difficult to detect early. Common symptoms include:
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves.
- Difficulty understanding conversations in noisy environments.
- Increasing the volume on electronic devices higher than normal.
- Experiencing buzzing or ringing sounds in the ears (tinnitus).
What Can You Do to Protect Your Hearing?
If you have diabetes, here are some tips to help protect your hearing and reduce the risk of hearing loss:
- Keep Blood Sugar Levels in Control: It is one of the most important steps to protect against hearing loss. Consistent control of blood sugar through diet, exercise, and medication (if needed) can help reduce the risk of diabetic complications, including hearing loss.
- Regular Hearing Screenings: Get annual hearing tests, especially if you have diabetes or are over 50 years old. Early detection of hearing loss can help manage the condition before it progresses, especially for those who have had diabetes for many years.
- Manage Your Cholesterol and Blood Pressure: Diabetes is often associated with high cholesterol and high blood pressure, both of which can exacerbate hearing loss. Maintaining healthy levels of both is crucial to reduce the strain on the blood vessels in the ear.
- Avoid Loud Noises: Loud noises from music, machinery, or other sources can cause additional damage to hearing. To protect ears from loud noises, use ear plugs or earmuffs and try to avoid prolonged exposure to loud noises wherever possible.
- Stay Active: Exercise is not only essential for managing diabetes but also for improving circulation and reducing inflammation. Regular physical activity increases blood flow to every part of the body, including the blood vessels in the inner ear.
- Consult with Your Doctor: If experiencing any hearing issues, such as difficulty understanding speech or ringing in the ears, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis can help manage both diabetes and hearing loss more effectively.
Conclusion
While hearing loss may not be a common complication of diabetes, studies show that people with diabetes are at a significantly higher risk of experiencing hearing problems. Diabetes can lead to hearing impairment through mechanisms like nerve damage, poor blood circulation, and inflammation. However, maintaining good control of blood sugars, staying active, and getting regular hearing checkups can reduce the risk of hearing loss and ensure you stay protected. If you have diabetes, screening for hearing impairment is very important, as we get screened for other complications of diabetes. The earlier you get detected, the better you can manage them and protect your overall well-being.
For personalised advice on diabetes management, consult us at Dr. Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre
Dr. Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre
Whitefield, Bangalore
Karnataka
