Studies have shown that there is a large overlap in the population with hearing loss and diabetes. So much so that it is felt that diabetes could be a more significant contributor to hearing loss than were realised.  It is twice as common to have hearing loss if you have Diabetes.

The precise mechanism of how Diabetes contributes to hearing loss is not clear yet. It’s possible that the high blood glucose levels associated with diabetes cause damage to the small blood vessels in the inner ear, similar to the way in which diabetes can damage the eyes and the kidneys. It is therefore very important to manage the disease very carefully to ensure that there is no damage to the hearing.

Since it can happen slowly, the symptoms of hearing loss can often be hard to notice. In fact, family members and friends sometimes notice the hearing loss before the person experiencing it.

Signs of hearing loss

  • Frequently asking others to repeat themselves.
  • Trouble following conversations that involve more than two people.
  • Thinking that others are mumbling.
  • Problems hearing in noisy places such as busy restaurants.
  • Trouble hearing the voices of women and small children.
  • Turning up the TV or radio volume too loud for others who are nearby.

If you suffer from diabetes and notice a change in your hearing, please make an appointment to have your hearing checked and monitored on a regular basis to track and treat any changes.