Key takeaways
- Hearing loss is ~2× as common.
- Prediabetes raises risk ~30%.
- Blood sugar affects small vessels.
- Get tested regularly.
- Manage your numbers.
Most people with diabetes know to check their eyes and feet. Fewer know their ears need attention too.
Diabetes and hearing at a glance
| Group | Hearing loss compared with normal blood sugar |
|---|---|
| Diabetes | About twice as common |
| Prediabetes | About 30% higher rate |
How high blood sugar affects the ear
- Damages tiny blood vessels supplying the inner ear
- Can affect the auditory nerve
- Often develops slowly and painlessly
Early signs to watch for
- Asking people to repeat themselves
- Trouble following conversations in noisy places
- Turning up the TV
- Ringing in the ears
Protect your hearing
- Get a hearing test at diagnosis and regularly after
- Keep blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol on target
- Avoid loud noise and wear ear protection
- Don't smoke
- Stay active
Tinnitrol supports circulation and ear health. If you have diabetes, ask your doctor before use, especially if you take blood pressure medicines.
Sources
- American Diabetes Association – "Diabetes and hearing loss."
- Bainbridge KE, et al. "Diabetes and hearing impairment in the United States." Annals of Internal Medicine, 2008.
- NIDDK – "Preventing diabetes problems."
Common questions
Does diabetes cause hearing loss?
Hearing loss is about twice as common in people with diabetes.
How does blood sugar affect hearing?
It can damage the inner ear's small blood vessels and nerves.
How often should I test my hearing?
At diagnosis and regularly afterward.