20th November 2014
Diabetes and its connection to hearing loss in sufferers
The connection between Diabetes and hearing loss
World Diabetes Day was on the 14th of November this year, we decided to take the time to remind people of the risk of hearing loss that is associated with diabetes. Diabetes affects more than 382 million people worldwide and is a major cause of heart disease and stroke, but it also has more little known effects. As part of routine health check-ups, Diabetics are accustomed to having their eyes and feet checked. However, all of the research confirms that it is a good idea to have their hearing checked regularly as well.
Diabetics face increased risk of hearing loss
It has been accepted for some time that diabetics have an increased risk of hearing loss, in 2008 the National Institute of Health and the Annals of Internal Medicine (USA) found that people with diabetes are twice as likely to experience hearing loss when compared to those who do not have the disease. Even those who have elevated blood sugar levels but who have not been diagnosed with diabetes are 30 percent more likely to have hearing loss than those with normal blood sugar levels, according to the American Diabetes Association. These are particularly stark figures that speak for themselves, anyone with diabetes should really make regular check-ups of their hearing a priority.
How does diabetes affect hearing
We believe diabetes affects your hearing in a variety of ways, the primary mechanism is most probably cardiovascular in nature caused by high glucose levels. High blood sugar levels produced by diabetes cause chemical changes which damage the blood vessels and nerves in a person’s inner ear. In doing so it affects the inner ear’s ability to transmit sound to the brain. This same mechanism can also affect the balance centres. Cardiovascular problems cause so much damage because nerves such as the ones in the inner ear, need an oxygen rich blood flow to maintain optimum health. Cardiovascular issues restrict this blood flow which has a detrimental effect on the nerves and their function.
Increased risk of hearing loss among younger Patients
The connection between diabetes and hearing loss appears to be stronger among younger patients. People younger than the age of 60 who have diabetes have a 2.6 times higher likelihood of hearing loss. Diabetic women are also more prone to developing associated hearing loss than their male counterparts for some reason. One of the main factors that will increase your chances of developing type 2 diabetes is your weight and lifestyle. If you are overweight, you should talk to your doctor about a diet and exercise program. Losing weight and regulating your blood sugar is beneficial for the blood vessels and nerves in your inner ear, as well as your overall health.
Studies show that losing just 7 percent of your body weight can significantly reduce your chances of developing type 2 diabetes, according to the Clinical Diabetes Centre in NYC. If you have diabetes you should educate yourself on the various signs and symptoms of hearing loss, be aware of those signs and it may well help you notice more quickly if and when your hearing is effected.
Signs of hearing loss
The signs of hearing loss include:
Frequently asking for others to repeat themselves.
Feeling as though others are mumbling.
Turning up the volume on the TV or radio.
Problems hearing in busy places or with multiple people.
Don't hesitate if you have any worries
If you think you may have hearing loss or if you recognise any of the signs we have discussed, get yourself tested. Hearing loss due to diabetes is typically a high frequency sensorineural (nerve deafness) hearing loss. This type of loss is not curable but can be treated successfully with hearing aids. The earlier a hearing loss is diagnosed, the earlier it can be treated, the less dramatic an effect it will have on your life. We now know that untreated hearing loss has a negative impact on general health emotional well being and quality of life, conversely, treating hearing loss has a very positive impact on quality of life.
There are also mounting concerns of a link between untreated hearing loss and cognitive issues such as Dementia and Alzheimers. The main point being for diabetics, the sooner the hearing loss is treated the better. So if you or a loved one has diabetes, ensure a hearing test is part of your routine medical check-ups. If you are worried about hearing loss and you are from the Isle Of Man, don't hesitate to give us a call. We can help you find out exactly what is going on with your hearing in a no pressure open environment.
