Diabetes and Hearing Loss

Like many medical conditions Diabetes can lead to higher chances of developing hearing loss. Studies have shown that people with the condition are about half as likely to experience hearing loss in their lives, and those with pre-diabetes have 30% higher rate.

The most common hearing loss for those with diabetes is sensorineural hearing loss caused by nerve damage in older adults.

This nerve damage is linked to multiple symptoms of diabetes:

• Blood vessel and nerve damage: High blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels and nerves in the inner ear, similar to how diabetes affects the eyes, kidneys, and feet.

• Reduced blood flow: The cochlea (part of the inner ear) relies on a rich blood supply. If circulation is reduced due to diabetes-related vascular issues, hearing can be impaired.

• Oxidative stress and inflammation: Chronic high blood sugar can lead to inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which may contribute to hearing loss.

With the increased prevalence of hearing loss in adults with diabetes, regular hearing checks are recommended. If you notice any signs of hearing loss we recommend informing your doctor and getting s hearing exam.

Signs of Hearing Loss:

• Muffled sound or speech

• Needing the volume or the radio turned up high

• Having a difficult time hearing on the phone

• Trouble hearing the voices of children and or women

• frequently asking others to repeat themselves