It might surprise you to know that there are over 37 million Americans who suffer from diabetes. Statistically speaking, that’s more than one in ten individuals, and that’s just the ones who have had this confirmed via a diagnosis. Of these people, there’s a very good chance that hearing loss has affected them or someone they know in one way or another. Extensive medical research has shown that people with diabetes are more likely to develop hearing loss than those who don’t.
There are many signs to be mindful of regarding hearing loss, with the most common being constantly talking louder or asking others to speak up, trouble hearing low-frequency sounds such as pets or small children, constantly listening to audio devices at high volumes, and difficulty hearing in noisy environments and public places.
People who have diabetes are particularly at risk due to the high levels of glucose that have been in their bodies over a period of several years. Certain conditions develop as a result of diabetes, such as high levels of cholesterol and hypertension (elevated blood pressure), among others. There are several case studies that have shown that heart disease and hearing loss share a close connection with one another in people who have been diagnosed with diabetes.
If you’ve been recently diagnosed with diabetes and have a family history of health problems related to the heart, it’s highly recommended that a hearing test be conducted right away. While getting periodic hearing tests conducted for non-diabetic patients is always recommended, people who have recently been diagnosed with diabetes are at higher risk for the problems that are commonly associated with hearing loss.
There are various ways in which hearing loss can be prevented as well. These are good things to practice on a regular business to safeguard your hearing:
- Avoid cleaning your ears with cotton swabs too often.
- Reduce recreational noise with home stereo systems and personal listening devices.
- Ask your medical care provider about the medications you currently take, and if there are any that have side effects related to hearing loss, discuss alternatives.
- Enclosed spaces that have high levels of noise.
If you or someone you know has recently been diagnosed with diabetes or are showing early signs of hearing loss, Coastal Hearing Care is here to help. For appointments, information, and more information that can help you maintain your current quality of life, visit us online or give us a call at 941-229-2122.