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Most people are familiar with the common complications of diabetes, such as vision changes, kidney disease, or nerve damage. But fewer realise that people with diabetes are twice as likely to have hearing loss as those without the condition. This article explores how high blood sugar can cause ear damage, the signs of diabetic hearing loss, and what you can do to protect your hearing health.
How High Blood Sugar Damages the Ear
The impact of diabetes extends far beyond managing blood sugar levels. Over time, high blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves throughout the body. These complications are well known in relation to the eyes, kidneys, and feet — but the same mechanism can also affect the delicate structures of the inner ear.
The inner ear relies on tiny blood vessels and nerve pathways to function properly. When blood sugar remains elevated:
- Circulation problems reduce oxygen supply to the inner ear.
- Nerve fibres (neuropathy) suffer damage, disrupting auditory signals.
- The sensory hair cells in the cochlea deteriorate, leading to ear damage.
These changes cause gradual sensorineural hearing loss, a permanent condition that often progresses so slowly it goes unnoticed until communication becomes difficult.
Signs of Hearing Loss You Shouldn’t Ignore
Look out for these early warning signs of hearing loss:
- Difficulty following conversations, especially in noisy environments
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
- Needing to turn up the TV or radio volume
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Struggling to hear high-pitched sounds or distinguish voices
If you recognise these symptoms, it’s worth booking a professional hearing test.
Does Having Better Diabetes Control Protect Your Hearing?
Managing diabetes is the best way to reduce your risk of hearing problems. Key strategies include:
- Blood sugar control: Work closely with your doctor to keep glucose levels stable.
- Healthy lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and maintain a healthy weight.
- Vascular health: Monitor blood pressure and cholesterol to ensure strong circulation that supports the inner ear.
By keeping your diabetes under control, you’re also taking steps to protect your hearing.
Why Diabetics Need Regular Hearing Tests
Because of the strong link between diabetes and hearing, annual hearing tests are recommended even if you think your hearing is fine. Subtle changes are often only detectable with professional testing.
Early detection allows for timely support such as hearing aids or tinnitus treatment, which can significantly improve communication and quality of life. Consulting an audiologist in Malaysia ensures you receive personalised advice and long-term support for your hearing health.
At Listening Lab Malaysia, we offer free hearing screening and comprehensive assessments. Our audiologists are equipped to detect early changes and provide solutions tailored to your needs.
Hearing Health Is Part of Diabetes Care
Hearing loss in diabetes is a lesser-known but very real complication. Prolonged high blood sugar can cause ear damage, leading to gradual and often permanent impairment.
By staying on top of your diabetes management, recognising the early signs of diabetic hearing loss, and scheduling regular hearing checks, you can protect both your health and your quality of life.
If you live with diabetes and have noticed changes in your hearing, don’t wait. Book a professional hearing test with Listening Lab Malaysia today and get expert guidance from our team of audiologists.
