The Link Between Hearing Loss & Diabetes

Are people with diabetes at risk of hearing loss?

Yes. Hearing loss is twice as likely in individuals with diabetes, according to the National Institute of Health. Below are studies that indicate people with diabetes are more likely to have hearing loss.

• This 2008 study examined a sample of individuals with and without diabetes. 54% of diabetic individuals had high frequency hearing loss, while only 32% of individuals without diabetes had high frequency hearing loss.

• This 2012 analysis examined many studies focused on the connection between diabetes and hearing loss and found those with diabetes had a higher prevalence of hearing loss regardless of age.

Why are people with diabetes at a higher risk for hearing loss?

Most individuals with diabetes have Type II diabetes. Type II diabetes usually affects overweight or inactive individuals and disrupts the body’s ability to properly produce enough insulin. Common symptoms of Type II diabetes include high blood pressure, high blood sugar, increased risk of infection, and fatigue.

The ear is a delicate system. Like the rest of the body, it requires regular blood flow to function correctly. However, the blood vessels which supply the inner ear are extremely small and are therefore, more susceptible to damage caused by high blood pressure and high blood sugar. These symptoms are more common in people with diabetes. It is possible that this could be the reason why hearing loss is more likely among this population. 

Diabetes also affects the nerves in our body. Diabetic neuropathy occurs when high blood sugar damages the nerves, which can lead to numbness, tingling, pain, and other symptoms. The auditory nerve is responsible for transmitting sound to the brain. This nerve may also be susceptible to damage from high blood sugar. If damaged, this could result in hearing loss.

If I am diabetic, what can I do to prevent hearing loss?

Unfortunately, hearing loss can happen to anyone. There is no certain way to prevent it. Maintaining a healthy body weight, monitoring your blood sugar, and exercising regularly is recommended for diabetics. Managing your diabetes is the first step in working to prevent hearing loss. If you are worried that you may have hearing loss, speak to your physician or visit an audiologist for a hearing evaluation.