9 Health Conditions
You Didn’t Know Were Linked to Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is more than just a hearing problem, it's a full-body health issue.
When we think about hearing loss, we usually imagine the cause and impact are limited to the ears. But hearing health is deeply connected to your overall wellness. In fact, hearing loss can both contribute to and be a symptom of other health conditions.
Understanding this connection can help you take proactive steps toward protecting both your hearing and your long-term health.
Health Conditions That May Be Correlated to Hearing Loss
Untreated hearing loss can affect more than just your ability to communicate, it can have serious consequences for your brain and body. These three health conditions have been shown to be correlated or worsened by untreated hearing loss:
- Dementia
Research has found that seniors with hearing loss are significantly more likely to develop dementia than those with healthy hearing. Early intervention is key to help slow the progression and/or onset of cognitive decline. - Depression
Hearing loss doesn’t just affect communication, it can also increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and feelings of isolation, especially when left untreated. - Falling
Hearing loss can affect balance and spatial awareness. People with untreated hearing loss are at a higher risk for falls, which can lead to serious injuries.
Health Conditions That Can Increase Your Risk of Hearing Loss
On the flip side, several medical conditions are known to contribute to or increase the likelihood of hearing loss. If you have any of the following, you should consider a baseline hearing test, even if you haven't noticed any obvious changes in your hearing yet.
- Cardiovascular Disease
Heart health and hearing health go hand in hand. Poor blood flow from cardiovascular disease can damage the sensitive structures of the inner ear. - Diabetes
People with diabetes are twice as likely to experience hearing loss. High blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels and nerves of the inner ear over time. - High Fevers
High fevers (hyperpyrexia), especially from serious infections, can damage the cochlea and other inner ear structures, sometimes leading to temporary or permanent hearing loss. - Ototoxicity
Certain medications and chemicals (ototoxic agents) can damage the inner ear, resulting in hearing loss, tinnitus, or balance issues. Common ototoxic drugs include some antibiotics, chemotherapy treatments, and high-dose aspirin. - Osteoporosis
Studies show a connection between osteoporosis and hearing loss. The condition may weaken the tiny bones inside the ear, affecting your ability to hear clearly. - Smoking
Smokers are about 70% more likely to develop hearing loss than nonsmokers. Tobacco can impact blood circulation, including to the auditory system.
Concerned about your hearing?
Whether you're noticing changes or just want a preventive checkup, we're here to help.
Schedule a hearing evaluation at Preferred Hearing Center today, your health and happiness are worth it!