How Changes in Your Ears Could Signal Diabetes
With over 1.2 million people in the UK potentially living with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes, this condition can often go unnoticed until other health complications arise.
Did you know that certain changes in your hearing might be early signs of diabetes? As part of World Diabetes Day, Rob Ormerod, Audiology Director at Bayfields Opticians and Audiologists, shares key signs to watch for in your ear health that could indicate diabetes.
How Diabetes Impacts Ear Health
Diabetics often experience fluctuating blood sugar levels, which can impact blood flow and damage the blood vessels in the inner ear. These effects can interfere with the nerve signals received by your ear, impacting your hearing and overall ear health in multiple ways.
Here are some ear-related symptoms that may be linked to diabetes:
Increased Ear Infections
People with diabetes are more susceptible to ear infections due to reduced blood flow to the ears. This can weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections.
To lower the risk of ear infections, follow general ear care practices: avoid inserting cotton buds into your ears, and wear earplugs while swimming. Bacterial ear infections may be treated with antibiotics, but for recurring infections, speak with your GP or pharmacist for additional options.
Tinnitus
Tinnitus, often described as ringing or buzzing in the ears without an external source, can sometimes be triggered by diabetes. The inner ear, or cochlea, relies on stable oxygen and glucose levels to function well. With diabetes affecting glucose levels due to insulin irregularities, the cochlea can be impacted, potentially leading to tinnitus.
If you’re experiencing tinnitus, a specialist consultation is essential to identify the underlying cause, which could be as simple as a build-up of earwax. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment options such as cognitive behavioural therapy or hearing aid solutions may help.
Hearing Loss
Studies show that those with diabetes are twice as likely to experience hearing loss. Hearing loss often progresses gradually, so it can be hard to notice. If you find it challenging to follow conversations or frequently turn up the volume on devices, it might be due to hearing deterioration.
Instead of increasing the volume, which can worsen hearing damage, or avoiding social settings, which may lead to loneliness and anxiety, consider getting a free hearing health check. An audiologist can evaluate your hearing and provide appropriate guidance and solutions.
If you would like to book a free hearing health check, today click here.