Hearing Loss and diabetes

While many people are aware of the impact diabetes can have on vision, heart health, and foot health, fewer know that it can also affect hearing. Hearing loss can develop gradually and may go unnoticed at first, but it’s an important part of your overall health to keep an eye on.

Diabetes has been linked to a higher risk of hearing loss. Anyone living with diabetes experiencing a level of hearing loss should have it checked out as soon as possible. As with many complications, it is often the case that the earlier something is detected, the better the outcomes.

Did you know? For people living with diabetes, it is possible that your risk of hearing loss is doubled. People with prediabetes have a 30% higher rate of hearing loss.

Diabetes and hearing loss

When we think of diabetes, we often focus on its impact on blood glucose, vision, or cardiovascular health. But one lesser-known complication is hearing loss. A condition that impacts millions of Australians. Research suggests that people with diabetes are twice as likely to experience sensorineural hearing loss, (damage to the inner ear) compared to those without the condition. 

How diabetes impacts hearing

The link is in the body’s small blood vessels and nerves. Over time, high blood glucose levels can damage the blood vessels in the inner ear. This damage can lead to hearing loss, which affects the inner ear or the nerve pathways from the ear to the brain.

Recognising the symptoms

Hearing loss related to diabetes often develops gradually, making it easy to overlook. Common signs include:

Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
Difficulty hearing in noisy environments
Turning up the volume on devices
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

If you or someone you know with diabetes is experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to seek a hearing assessment.

Solutions and management

Hearing loss associated with diabetes is manageable, especially when detected early. By taking a few proactive steps, you’re already on your way to better hearing.

Regular hearing checks. People with diabetes should include regular hearing tests as part of their health checks. Audiologists can detect early signs of hearing loss and recommend appropriate interventions.
Blood glucose monitoring. Maintaining stable blood glucose levels is important. Managing your diabetes can slow or prevent damage to your hearing.
Hearing aids and assistive devices. Hearing aids, especially the most modern versions, are discreet and highly effective. There are many clinics that offer tailored solutions for different types of hearing loss.
Maintaining healthy habits. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking can improve circulation and reduce the risk of complications, including hearing loss.
Specialist support. If sudden hearing loss occurs, it is considered a medical emergency. The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) recommends immediate evaluation and treatment.

Hearing loss doesn’t have to be an inevitable part of living with diabetes. With awareness, early detection through the annual cycle of care checks, Australians with diabetes can protect their hearing and maintain a high quality of life. If you or a loved one is managing diabetes, consider adding a hearing check to your next health review—it’s a small step that can make a big difference.

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