Diabetes alert: Here’s what you need to know about your ears if your blood sugar levels are high
If you are living with diabetes, you are likely to experience difficulty in
hearing. Yes, you heard us right here. The debate on the association between
hearing loss and high blood sugar levels has been going on from 1960s. However,
a study published in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine suggests that
diabetics are twice more likely to suffer from this condition than those whose
blood sugar levels are in the normal range. However, the process of hearing
loss is so slow that you not even notice the manifestations. The findings of
the study also suggest that people with borderline diabetes have a 30 per cent
higher rate of hearing loss than non-diabetics. According to the researchers of
this study, diabetes damages the nerves and blood vessels of your inner ear.
This is what leads to hearing loss. In this Q&A, a diabetologist clears the air about the link between diabetes and hearing loss.
Q. What are the common types of hearing loss a diabetic is likely to
suffer?
A. Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type of hearing loss a
diabetic may suffer from. This type of hearing loss occurs when the inner ear
nerves become damaged and do not transmit signals to the brain. In a diabetic,
if his/her blood sugar levels are very high for a prolonged period of time it
can lead to nerve damage or neuropathy – the main cause for hearing loss in
type 2 diabetics. Due to this long-term hyperglycaemia the blood vessels that
are a part of the inner ear fail to get enough blood or oxygen and eventually become
damaged. This also damages the nerves within the ear.
Q. What part of the ear is likely to be affected?
A. Diabetes affects the small blood vessels and nerves that are a part of
the inner ear which eventually lead to deafness.
Q. What signs and symptoms should a diabetic look for ?
A. Diabetic patients suffering from hearing loss may complain that people
seem to mumble or that they can hear but find it difficult to understand what
is being said. When you experience any of these symptoms, it is time to see a
doctor. Read more about causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of diabetes.
Q. Would a normal external ear hearing aid help in the case of this type of
hearing loss?
A. In most cases of diabetic hearing loss, the use of a conventional
hearing aid is the most common treatment option. However, if you have a more
severe hearing loss, a cochlear implant is recommended. A cochlear implant is
an electronic device that is surgically implanted. It bypasses the damaged
inner part of the ear and stimulates the nerve responsible for hearing
directly. Find out more about hearing aids. Find out more about hearing aids.
DIABETES PREVENTION
The best way to prevent hearing loss is by keeping a close track of your
blood sugar levels regularly,
Visit your diabetologist regularly and get tests like HbA1c done regularly,
Exercise regularly,
Avoid eating meaningless calories,
Get adequate sleep and
Reduce your stress levels.