Did you know that hearing loss is twice as common in adults who have diabetes? Recent research shows that those who live in the U.S. with prediabetes blood glucose levels have a rate of hearing loss that is 30% higher than those with normal blood glucose levels.
November is American Diabetes Month, which means now is a great time to explore care options for yourself or loved ones who continue to cope with diabetes and its continued treatment. Getting in touch with your audiologist is another resource that can help you live your best life.
Diabetes and Hearing Loss Go Hand-in-Hand
As with cardiovascular disease, diabetes symptoms such as high blood sugar can damage blood vessels throughout the body, which includes the small blood vessels in the ears. Along with nerve damage, this other diabetes symptom can damage auditory nerves and damage your hearing. In addition, those who have diabetes may also take ototoxic medications, like glyburide, to manage their disease, affecting hearing and vestibular function.
In a study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), researchers discovered a higher rate of hearing loss in those with diabetes. The test measured participants’ ability to hear low, middle and high-frequency sounds in both ears. The link between diabetes and hearing loss was evident across all frequencies, with a stronger association in the high-frequency range.
More people are becoming aware of the link between these two conditions. The American Diabetes Association confirmed that hearing loss is more common in people with diabetes, which means more people are now recommended to visit an audiologist or hearing specialist as part of their routine diabetes care.
Working Together to Minimize Risks
If you think you may be prediabetic or suffer from diabetes, in addition to blood sugar control and a healthy diabetic management strategy, you should reach out for a hearing evaluation with Ear, Nose & Throat Associates, P.C. The evaluation will help you establish a baseline for the future and to know if a treatment plan is recommended to forestall other comorbidities, like cognitive decline. Most insurance plans will cover a comprehensive evaluation when referred by your physician and performed by an audiologist.
Diabetics should have annual hearing exams as part of their routine health care. Call us today to schedule an appointment, 260-459-6924!