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Writer's pictureKripa Marie Philip

THE SILENT CONNECTION: HOW DIABETES IMPACTS HEARING HEALTH.


Key Takeaways

  • Diabetes and Hearing: There is a strong connection between diabetes and hearing loss.

  • Mechanisms: High blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves causing inflammation, all of which can in-turn affect one's hearing.

  • Risk Factors: Longer duration of diabetes, age, high blood pressure, and cholesterol can increase hearing loss risk.

  • Management: Control blood sugar levels, have regular hearing screenings, manage comorbid conditions, and protect your hearing from noise exposure.


Are Hearing Loss and Diabetes Related?




Diabetes is very common today. According to the International Diabetes Federation, about 463 million people have diabetes, and around 540 million people are at risk. Surprisingly, many people with diabetes are not even aware that they have the condition.

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that makes it hard for the body to control sugar levels. It happens when the pancreas doesn't make enough insulin or the body can't use insulin effectively. There are two main types:

  1. Type 1 Diabetes: The pancreas cannot make insulin due to an autoimmune issue.

  2. Type 2 Diabetes: Often diagnosed as hyperglycaemia is a condition the where body becomes resistant to insulin over time.

Either of these conditions could occur due to genetic or environmental factors.

If not treated, diabetes can cause serious health problems like heart disease and eye issues. One less-known problem is hearing loss. Studies show a strong link between diabetes and hearing issues.


How Does Diabetes Affect Hearing?


Our body has insulin and glucose receptors in many organs, including those responsible for hearing, like the cochlea. When diabetes impairs glucose, it can affect these structures.

  1. Blood Vessel Damage: High blood sugar can damage the blood vessels that supply the inner ear with oxygen and nutrients, leading to hearing loss.

  2. Nerve Damage (Neuropathy): High blood sugar can also damage nerves, including those needed for hearing(auditory nerves), causing diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

  3. High Blood Sugar and Inflammation: Persistent high blood sugar can cause oxidative stress and inflammation, damaging hearing-related cells.

Warning Signs

  • Duration: The longer diabetes is unmanaged, the higher the risk of permanent damage, including hearing loss.

  • Age: Older adults with diabetes may experience hearing loss earlier.

  • High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Common in diabetics, these can worsen hearing problems by affecting blood flow to the ear.

Managing the Risk

  1. Control Blood Sugar Levels: Follow a treatment plan with medicine, exercise, and a healthy diet.

  2. Regular Hearing Screenings: Early detection can prevent further damage.

  3. Address Other Health Issues: Manage high blood pressure and cholesterol.

  4. Protect Hearing: Avoid loud noises and use ear protection.

Conclusion

There is a strong link between diabetes and hearing loss. By managing diabetes and regularly checking hearing, individuals can protect their hearing and overall health. If you are someone with diabetes, include hearing check-ups in your healthcare routine to preserve your hearing for years to come.

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