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Have you had your hearing tested recently? If your answer to this question is no, it could be time to do so, as type 1 and type 2 diabetes have been associated with an increased prevalence of hearing loss¹. An Australian study found those living with type 2 diabetes are twice as likely to develop hearing loss compared to those living without the condition, regardless of age. Also, people diagnosed with diabetes could be up to 3 times more likely to experience accelerated decline in their hearing loss over time². Even people with pre-diabetes have been linked to higher rates of hearing loss^{3, 4}. The impact of living with hearing loss can be significant due to increased risks of mental health challenges and social isolation, in addition to the everyday communication difficulties that people and their loved ones endure⁵. The association between diabetes and increased rates of hearing loss is an important conversation to have.

To understand the link between diabetes and hearing loss, it is important to note just like other long-term complications and type 2 diabetes, persistent elevated blood glucose levels may cause damage to the cochlea in the ear. The cochlea, with its snail like appearance, is our organ of hearing. This organ is responsible for sending sound to our brain. It is speculated that diabetes causes abnormalities to blood vessels and nerves including those associated with carrying blood and oxygen to the cochlea^{3, 6}.  

Hearing loss is something that usually happens gradually. You may not even know you are impacted by it! As it is an invisible condition, hearing loss can often go undetected for years before it is picked up and treated. We know that early detection and intervention is best when it comes to hearing impairment⁵. If you are living with diabetes, it is essential you make hearing checks a part of your yearly health reviews so you can love your ears and keep being you.

What can you do?

If you are living with diabetes or have any hearing health concerns and are over the age of 26, book a free hearing check with Audika. Call 1800 773 304 or click here to book. As hearing experts, we know that hearing means something different for everyone. Being able to hear means being able to keep connected, not just for your family but for friends as well.

About Audika

Over a billion people worldwide suffer from hearing loss. It is Audika’s ambition to help more people hear better. Healthy hearing may contribute to a higher quality of life, and people deserve to reach their full hearing potential. These ambitions are what the hearing care experts at Audika work for every day.

Audika offers high quality expertise and hearing care at more than 300 Clinics across Australia, supporting hearing loss ranging from very mild through to severe. Audika is part of the Demant Group, a global group covering many areas of hearing healthcare – from diagnostic instruments to a wide range of hearing aids and bone anchored implantable devices – with a history spanning over 100 years. Please visit www.audika.com.au/diabetes for more information.

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