Hearing loss is a lesser-known yet significant complication associated with diabetes. With higher chances of hearing impairment than non-diabetics, it becomes imperative for individuals with diabetes to pay attention to their auditory health. Here's how you can prevent and handle hearing loss while managing diabetes.

Prioritising Blood Sugar Control

The risk of hearing loss in diabetics is high due to possible damage to the blood vessels in the inner ear caused by constant elevated blood sugar levels. So, maintaining your blood glucose levels is crucial. Here's how:

• Monitor your glucose levels regularly.
• Stick to a diabetes-friendly diet.
• Make sure to exercise for at least half an hour daily.
• Aim for a moderate body weight.
• Take your diabetes medications as prescribed.

Following a lifestyle modification programme, like the Apollo Super 6, can help you achieve these goals. It offers personalised guidance and support to manage type 2 diabetes effectively.

Ensuring Regular Hearing Assessments

Getting your hearing tested annually is vital. Early detection can prevent further worsening of any hearing impairments. If you observe signs like difficulty in understanding speech or persistent ear ringing, consult your doctor immediately. They can refer you to an audiologist if needed.

Protecting Your Ears

Apart from managing your diabetes, it's also important to protect your ears from other risks:

• Use ear protection when exposed to loud noises.
• Avoid smoking as it heightens the risk of hearing loss.
• Maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels
• Maintain good hygiene of the ears and auditory canal.

Addressing Hearing Loss

If you do experience hearing loss, don't lose heart. There are many effective treatment options available:

• Digital hearing aids: These devices amplify sounds entering the ear.
• Cochlear implants: For severe hearing loss cases.

Unfortunately, managing blood sugar levels cannot reverse existing hearing damage, but it can prevent further deterioration. Remember, early treatment can significantly improve your quality of life. Presbycusis is senile sensory neural hearing loss which is not reversed by treating or controlling diabetes as it is related to genetic inheritance also.

Actively managing your diabetes, routinely getting your hearing tested, protecting your ears, and seeking early treatment for hearing loss are all crucial steps that every diabetic individual should consider. Reach out to your doctor and audiologist for a personalised plan to safeguard your hearing health.