Is there a link between diabetes and hearing loss?

Research has been conducted into whether there is a link between diabetes and hearing loss. This research concluded that hearing loss is more prevalent in adults with diabetes.

A study looked at people aged 20 – 69. They found that people with diabetes were two times more likely to have a hearing loss than those who don’t. They also found that people who are pre-diabetic are 30% more likely to have a hearing loss. Being pre-diabetic means that your blood sugars are higher than usual but not high enough yet to be diagnosed with diabetes. There are other studies that also come to the same conclusion.

Why does having diabetes increase your chance of developing a hearing loss?

Unfortunately, there is no precise answer for this question at this moment in time. There are specialists who believe that diabetes damages the hearing nerves and therefore leads to a hearing loss. High blood sugars can damage nerves all throughout your body and this is known as diabetic neuropathy. Mostly, the damage is caused to nerves in your legs and feet. However, it can affect other parts of the body.

It depends on which nerves have been affected but diabetic neuropathy symptoms can range from pain and numbness to problems with other organs / parts of your body. The symptoms vary depending on the individual and are sometimes only mild, but can be very severe and actually debilitating. Specialists believe this is what is happening to the hearing nerve too.

A different theory is that the high blood sugars could cause damage to the very small blood vessels that support the inner ear. This is very similar to how high blood sugars affect kidney function, and also vision. As these blood vessel systems are damaged, they lose the ability to function properly. In terms of the inner ear, this means that your hearing would be compromised.

Whilst these are two different explanations as to what could be causing a link between diabetes and hearing loss, they both have high blood sugars in common.

Is there any way to protect against this type of hearing loss?

People with diabetes often follow medication and diet treatment plans to ensure that their blood sugar levels stay in control. The better the blood sugar levels are controlled, the less likely it will be that they can affect the hearing system.

Should I have a hearing test?

Even if you believe your hearing is perfect and you have diabetes, it is advisable to have a hearing test so that you have an initial analysis. The hearing test should then be repeated annually to ensure that it does not worsen. Regular check-ups of your hearing will mean that should there be a change, treatment can be prescribed as soon as possible.

If you would like any further advice, or to book yourself in for a hearing consultation, please get in touch.