Hearing loss and Diabetes

Hearing loss and diabetes are two of Australia’s most common health concerns and there is a link between the two conditions. Researchers have shown that hearing loss to be twice as common in adults with diabetes than with those without.

Several studies observed that elevated  blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and reduce blood flow to  various areas of the body. That damage could occur in the delicate  structures of the inner ear and result in hearing loss. Hearing  loss associated with diabetes is often sudden and can affect anyone at  any age living with diabetes, so it is imperative to have hearing checks  annually. It is important that those living with diabetes understand  the risks and long-term implications of hearing loss. The physical and  psychological effects of hearing loss can be debilitating. Untreated  hearing loss in adults can lead to significant health, social and  economic problems, including falls, cognitive decline, social isolation  and reduced capacity to learn and work. 

So,  if you have diabetes, it is essential that you keep on top of your  medication and treatment plans and keep up with your annual hearing  checks for early diagnosis of any hearing issues.