Is Hearing Loss Common With Diabetes?

Hearing loss is a disorder that impacts a sizeable section of the population, and research suggests that people with diabetes have a greater chance of developing an issue with their hearing. It is important to note that hearing loss does not affect everyone with diabetes, but if you or a loved one are diagnosed with diabetes, it’s important to ensure you watch for signs of hearing loss and have your hearing tested. The precise mechanism behind why there is a link between diabetes and hearing loss is thought to be connected to blood sugar levels. This theory, as well as understanding why you might have a ringing sensation in your ears and what to do when you’re concerned about hearing loss, are detailed further below.

Whether you or a loved one have diabetes or are simply concerned about possible hearing loss, it’s important to talk with experienced professionals to gain knowledge to help you assess your issues and develop a treatment plan. 

Understanding the Research Between Hearing Loss and Diabetes

The connection between diabetes and hearing loss has been the subject of numerous research studies, including one by the National Institute of Health, that found when compared to people who did not have diabetes, those who did have diabetes were found to have hearing loss risk that was two times higher than average. As the research continues, the thought that elevated levels of blood sugar might cause damage to the blood vessels and nerves in the inner ear, resulting in hearing loss, seems to be gaining traction. This theory is backed up by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

According to the findings, the length of time a person has had diabetes may also be a factor in the progression of hearing loss. Hearing loss was shown to be more prevalent in those with diabetes who had the condition for longer periods. This makes sense when considering the cumulative effects of extended exposure to elevated blood sugar levels and their ability to cause the auditory system to sustain more severe damage over time.

Can Type 2 Diabetes Cause Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is not directly caused by diabetes. However, it is thought that those with Type 2 Diabetes are at an increased risk of experiencing tinnitus, which is an underlying condition of age-related hearing loss. Tinnitus causes you to hear a ringing sound in your ear, despite that sound not being present. Just like the connection to hearing loss, the connection between diabetes and tinnitus is still being explored, although it is thought that changes that occur in the blood vessels and nerves during aging could contribute to tinnitus development. Additionally, the prevalence of tinnitus was shown to be greater in those who had diabetes compared to people who did not have diabetes.

As mentioned above, it is essential to keep in mind that despite the fact that there seems to be a correlation between diabetes and hearing loss or tinnitus, people who have diabetes do not necessarily have to suffer from any of these conditions. Hearing loss and tinnitus can also be caused by a variety of other causes, such as aging, heredity, prolonged exposure to loud noise, and even other medical diseases. On the other hand, diabetes seems to be a risk factor that raises the likelihood of hearing loss, which is why it is essential to discuss your risks with a qualified audiology team.

How Do Diabetics Treat Hearing Loss?

When it comes to treating hearing loss in people who have diabetes, the treatment is the same as for those who do not have diabetes. Hearing aids are the most prevalent kind of treatment, allowing you to hear more clearly through the amplification of sounds. Hearing aids are available in a wide variety of forms and designs, and an audiologist may assist you in determining which hearing aid will be the most effective in meeting your particular needs. If you have significant hearing loss or hearing aids don’t seem to aid your condition, cochlear implants might be discussed as a possible treatment option. 

It is imperative for people who have diabetes to maintain close collaboration with hearing healthcare specialists in order to select the treatment strategy that will be most effective in meeting their individual requirements. Hearing tests should be performed on a routine basis in order to monitor any changes in hearing function that may occur over time. In addition, proper management of your diabetes may help slow your hearing loss or prevent further deterioration in some situations. 

Does Diabetes Make Your Ears Feel Clogged?

Even though diabetes can affect a number of different parts of the body, including the ears, the condition does not immediately create the sensation of clogged ears. Alterations in blood sugar levels, on the other hand, can cause fluid levels throughout the body to become unbalanced, which in turn may have an effect on the cochlea and cause a sensation of fullness in the ears. This sensation of having plugged ears is typically temporary and may clear out on its own. However, if you develop chronic or bothersome symptoms of clogged ears, it is best for you to discuss the situation with a medical professional to determine the cause and potential treatment. 

Talk With an Audiologist to Assess Your Risk

It is essential for diabetics who are experiencing tinnitus or hearing loss to discuss the issue with an audiologist to determine the underlying cause and investigate treatment options. The treatment of any underlying medical disorders, the management of stress levels, and the adoption of good living choices are all things that can help reduce any symptoms you might feel.

Having diabetes does not mean you will have tinnitus or suffer from hearing loss, but there does appear to be a connection that increases the possibility, according to ongoing research. The precise nature of the connection between diabetes and hearing loss requires additional investigation, but if you have concerns seek assistance sooner rather than later. Screenings for hearing loss on a regular basis, along with proper management of your diabetes, are two things that can help reduce the negative effects that both issues can have on your quality of life. If you have concerns, call our team at El Dorado Hearing today.