Diabetes & Hearing Loss

Diabetes & Hearing Loss 

Hearing loss is two times more common in people with diabetes than those without the disease. Many studies have found that diabetes is related to hearing loss at all sound registers. Your ear is a delicate structure. Diabetes takes a toll on the small blood vessels throughout the body, including the ears. While other parts of the body can accommodate for damaged blood vessels by using alternative blood supplies, the ear does not have this option. Once the blood vessel to the ears is damaged, there is no other back-up blood supply option and the hearing will dull accordingly. In addition to the loss of hearing, a person may also experience an increased risk of falling because the inner ear is not able to manage the sense of balance.  If you are living with diabetes, read these tips to reduce diabetes-related hearing loss.

How can you prevent diabetes-related hearing loss?

Many people experience hearing loss as they age, but there is still a lot your can due to reduce your risk and preserve your hearing.

1. Control Blood Sugar – Managing type 1 and type 2 diabetes is hard work, especially when you live in New Orleans that is filled with lots of wonderful restaurants. But, gaining and maintaining a regimented sugar control could keep your hears sharp longer.
2. Don’t Smoke – Smoking is not only bad for your lungs, but also can affect your hearing. It acts as a risk multiplier when combined without hearing loss risk factors, such as poorly controlled diabetes, working in a loud environment, or being around other loud noises. 
3. Manage Loud Noise – A noisy work environment can increase your risk of hearing loss. Consider using noise canceling or reducing devices to protect your ears. 

If you would like to learn more about your options for hearing loss, Call CNC Hearing & Balance Center at Uptown Hearing & Balance (504) 934-8321 or Marrero Hearing & Balance (504) 934-8320. 

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.