Are there any links between hearing loss and diabetes?

In this blog post we explore the link between diabetes and hearing loss.

Hearing loss is more commonly seen in people aged over 60 who have Type 2 diabetes.

What causes the link between hearing loss and diabetes?

High blood sugar causes blood vessels in the cochlear (part of the inner ear) to rupture, which disrupts the operation of the ear’s sound system. Once the sound system is disrupted, hearing loss is the noticeable symptom.

If hearing loss occurs, there are various hearing aid products that that can be used to treat it.


What other ear issues may arise from diabetes?

  • Balance issues – balance issues are commonly linked to ears, commonly caused by the middle or inner ear being inflamed or differing fluid levels in each ear.
  • Chronic kidney disease – the kidney and the stria vascularis (part of the cochlear) share physiological and ultrastructural similarities. As diabetes often results in chronic renal or kidney disease, the link between diabetes and hearing loss may be indirect, but it does exist.

It is recommended that people with diabetes have their hearing monitored annually. If you have diabetes, try our online hearing test for free or make an appointment at a clinic to see one of our caring ear health professionals.

bloom™ hearing specialists are now working with the Australian Diabetes Educators Association (ADEA) to help with the link between hearing loss and diabetes. 

What other ear issues may arise from diabetes?

  • Balance issues – balance issues are commonly linked to ears, commonly caused by the middle or inner ear being inflamed or differing fluid levels in each ear.
  • Chronic kidney disease – the kidney and the stria vascularis (part of the cochlear) share physiological and ultrastructural similarities. As diabetes often results in chronic renal or kidney disease, the link between diabetes and hearing loss may be indirect, but it does exist.

It is recommended that people with diabetes have their hearing monitored annually. If you have diabetes, try our online hearing test for free or make an appointment at a clinic to see one of our caring ear health professionals.

bloom™ hearing specialists are now working with the Australian Diabetes Educators Association (ADEA) to help with the link between hearing loss and diabetes. 

Online hearing test - it will only take a moment

Check out whether you might have a hearing loss and get the hearing result send directly to your email.