Can Diabetes Cause Tinnitus?
November 29, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
While diabetes itself isn’t a direct cause of tinnitus, there’s evidence to suggest that diabetes may contribute to an increased risk of developing tinnitus or worsening existing tinnitus symptoms.
Tinnitus is a condition characterized by the perception of ringing, buzzing, hissing, or other sounds in the ears when no external sound is present. The exact cause of tinnitus can be complex and multifactorial, and various underlying conditions or factors may contribute to its onset or exacerbation.
Diabetes is known to affect the nerves and blood vessels throughout the body, including those associated with the auditory system. Several theories suggest how diabetes might be linked to tinnitus:
- Neuropathy: Diabetes can cause nerve damage (neuropathy) due to prolonged high blood sugar levels. This nerve damage may affect the nerves associated with hearing and lead to tinnitus.
- Blood vessel damage: Diabetes can affect blood circulation and damage blood vessels. Changes in blood flow to the inner ear could potentially contribute to tinnitus.
- Co-occurring conditions: Diabetes is associated with other health issues like high blood pressure or cardiovascular problems, which themselves can be linked to tinnitus.
It’s important to note that not all individuals with diabetes will experience tinnitus, and the relationship between diabetes and tinnitus is not fully understood. Moreover, tinnitus can occur due to various reasons, including exposure to loud noises, age-related hearing loss, ear infections, or other underlying health conditions.
If someone with diabetes experiences tinnitus or notices changes in their hearing, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional, audiologist, or otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist) for proper evaluation and management. Treatment options for tinnitus aim to address underlying causes, manage symptoms, or provide coping strategies to improve quality of life for individuals experiencing tinnitus.