Does diabetes put your hearing at risk?

Most people know that diabetes can affect the heart, kidneys, and eyes. But fewer people realize it can also impact something less obvious: your hearing. In fact, growing research shows a clear link between blood sugar levels and hearing health—and diabetes and prediabetes are on the rise in Canada, with roughly one in three adults now affected. 

In this article, we’ll explore how diabetes can lead to hearing changes, how to reduce your risk, and what to do if you’re already managing the condition. 

• What’s the connection between diabetes and hearing loss? 

• Can hearing loss from diabetes be prevented? 

• How to protect your hearing if you’re living with diabetes 

• Why proactive hearing care matters 

Note: Our Hearing Care Providers (HCPs) are here to support your hearing health and provide personalized guidance. However, if you're concerned about medical issues affecting your hearing, always consult your healthcare provider first. 

What’s the connection between diabetes and hearing loss? 

Diabetes affects your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar. Over time, high blood glucose levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, including the delicate structures in your inner ear responsible for processing sound. 

When these tiny systems are affected, sound signals may not be transmitted as clearly to the brain. You may notice speech starting to sound muffled, or that you’re missing high-pitched sounds more often. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hearing loss occurs nearly twice as often in people with diabetes compared to those without the condition—and even individuals with prediabetes are at an elevated risk. A recent systematic review also found that people with type 2 diabetes may be up to four times more likely to develop hearing loss than adults without diabetes. 

Can hearing loss from diabetes be prevented? 

While hearing loss caused by diabetes can’t be reversed, you can take steps to protect your hearing and reduce your risk. 

• Keep your blood sugar in check: Consistent glucose control helps protect the tiny blood vessels in your ears from damage. 

• Stay active and eat well: Healthy habits support your hearing health and reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the first place. 

• Watch for early signs: Trouble hearing conversations, turning up the TV, or ringing in the ears (tinnitus) may indicate a need for a hearing test. 

The sooner you detect hearing changes, the easier it is to manage them. And with hearing loss related to diabetes sometimes starting as early as your 30s, being proactive is key. 

How to protect your hearing if you’re living with diabetes 

Hearing health should be part of your routine care if you're living with diabetes—just like eye exams, foot checks, or blood pressure monitoring. Here's how to stay proactive. 

Get your hearing tested regularly 

The best place to start is with a baseline hearing test. This gives your Hearing Care Provider (HCP) a clear snapshot of your current hearing levels and helps track changes over time. Many hearing changes happen gradually and may not be noticeable at first, but early detection can make a major difference in how well you manage them. 

Annual follow-up tests are especially helpful for people with diabetes or prediabetes, as they allow your care team to identify patterns or subtle shifts before they interfere with daily life. 

Know the early warning signs 

Diabetes-related hearing loss doesn’t always happen suddenly. You might notice things like muffled speech, trouble hearing in noisy places, or the need to turn up the TV more often. These symptoms may seem minor but could signal a change in the health of your auditory system. Common signs to watch for include: 

• Asking others to repeat themselves 

• Feeling like people are mumbling 

• Increased difficulty hearing phone conversations 

• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus) 

If you notice any of these, it’s a good idea to check in with a Hearing Care Provider (HCP), especially if you already have diabetes or are managing other risk factors. 

Protect your ears from everyday risks 

Beyond the effects of diabetes itself, everyday environmental noise can also take a toll. Use hearing protection in loud settings like concerts, construction zones, or even while mowing the lawn. Keep headphone volume below 60% and take listening breaks throughout the day. 

Other health factors matter too. Controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, and avoiding smoking can help preserve circulation to the inner ear, protecting both hearing and overall quality of life. 

Why proactive hearing care matters 

Diabetes is a whole-body condition, and your ears are part of that story. Understanding the link between blood sugar and hearing health allows you to take smarter steps toward protecting your well-being, staying connected to loved ones, and maintaining independence as you age. 

A hearing test is a simple place to start—and it could make a big difference in your long-term quality of life. 

Key takeaways 

• Diabetes can increase the risk of hearing loss by damaging inner ear blood vessels and nerves. 

• People with prediabetes are also at risk, with elevated hearing loss rates compared to the general population. 

• Hearing loss caused by diabetes is not reversible, but early detection helps with long-term management. 

• Good lifestyle habits like balanced eating, physical activity, and hearing protection can help reduce the risk. 

• Hearing tests are an essential part of care for anyone living with or at risk for diabetes. 

Looking for personalized support? Book a free hearing test or find a clinic near you to take the first step.