Did you know Diabetes can affect hearing loss? As the prevalence of hearing loss is ever-increasing in today’s society, so is the prevalence of diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association,  “nearly 30 million people in the U.S. have diabetes, and an estimated 34.5 million have some type of hearing loss”. Needless to say, these two health conditions account for two of America’s biggest health concerns. Those with diabetes versus those who do not, studies have shown, are twice as likely to acquire hearing loss.

Furthermore, approximately “90 and 95 percent” of people with diabetes have type 2, which can develop at any age. Some researchers have theorized the increased blood sugar, which can damage blood vessels throughout the body (e.g. the ears), is the primary reason for hearing loss in individuals with diabetes. 

Diabetes can affect hearing loss regardless of age.    

That’s correct, the diabetes disease doesn’t know what age you are. Have you or a loved one have been clinically diagnosed with diabetes or as being pre-diabetic?  If you have, it’s imperative to make sure you are monitoring your blood sugar levels and hearing acuity. If you suspect or experience  symptoms associated with diabetes but have not been diagnosed, contact your local primary care physician for an evaluation. Be proactive about your health and manage the aspects of life that are within your control. Don’t sit around asking yourself what if, until it becomes what is. Find a local audiologist or hearing instrument specialist for a hearing test as soon as possible. When it comes to your overall health and quality of life, don’t gamble. The important thing to consider after having read this article, is how you can implement hearing care management into your healthy routines and checkups. In doing so you can schedule a free hearing test with us at the number listed below! Call us today so we can help you manage and prevent future hearing loss. 

– Adam Dobkin, Doctoral Graduate Student in Audiology

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