Hearing impairment in Individuals with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D)

Aging with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) may include hearing impairment. Here is a brief look at some of the types, causes, prevalence, and tools that can help individuals better manage their condition while addressing this sensory impairment.

Types of Hearing Loss

Three basic categories of hearing loss:

1. Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SNHL): This type results from damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve. Common causes include aging, exposure to loud noise, injury, disease, infections, certain drugs, or inherited condition.
2. Conductive Hearing Loss: This involves problems in the outer or middle ear, often due to earwax buildup, fluid, infection or a bone abnormality; or injury.
3. Mixed Hearing Loss: A combination of sensorineural and conductive factors.

There are many more types of hearing loss. Hearing testing is critical for discovering exactly what type of hearing loss one may have and will help determine the hearing care solution.

Causes of Hearing Loss

Older people are the largest group affected by hearing loss. There are many contributors to hearing loss from excessive noise, drugs, viral or bacterial infections, head injury, heredity, etc., as well as heart disease or diabetes.

• Microvascular Damage: High blood glucose levels can damage small blood vessels throughout the body, including those that supply the cochlea (the hearing organ).
• Oxidative Stress: Chronic hyperglycemia can lead to oxidative stress, damaging the cells within the auditory system.
• Neuropathy: Just as diabetes can cause peripheral neuropathy, it may also affect the auditory nerve, impairing hearing.
• Inflammation: Systemic inflammation associated with diabetes can exacerbate damage to the auditory system.

How Common Is Hearing Loss in T1D?

Studies consistently show a higher prevalence of hearing loss in individuals with diabetes. For example:

• A 2021 study published in Diabetes Care found that adults with T1D were nearly twice as likely to have hearing loss compared to those without diabetes.
• A meta-analysis in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism indicated a 30% higher incidence of sensorineural hearing loss in people with diabetes.

These findings underline the importance of regular hearing assessments for individuals with T1D.

Tools for Hearing Alarms from Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs)

For people with T1D who use CGMs, hearing alarms and notifications can be a critical part of managing blood glucose levels. Hearing loss can make it challenging to detect these alerts, but several tools and strategies can help:

1. Vibrating Alerts: Most CGMs, such as the Dexcom or Libre systems, offer vibration settings that can complement auditory alerts. Pairing CGMs with a smartwatch can provide additional tactile notifications.
2. Visual Alerts: Bright and flashing visual alarms can be configured on CGM apps, making it easier to catch notifications.
3. Assistive Listening Devices: Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids can connect directly to smartphones or CGMs, allowing alarms to stream directly to the user’s listening device.
4. Third-Party Apps: Apps like Nightscout or Sugarmate can amplify alerts or send them to other devices, including smart speakers, to ensure alarms are not missed.
5. Bedside Devices: Vibrating pillows or alarm clocks designed for individuals with hearing loss can ensure overnight alerts are noticed.

Practical Tips for Managing Hearing Loss with T1D

1. Talk to your primary care physician, endocrinologist, or healthcare team: You may need to seek help from a hearing specialist like an audiologist.
2. Schedule Regular Hearing Tests: Adults with T1D should consider annual hearing evaluations, particularly if they notice changes in hearing.
3. Maintain Blood Glucose Levels: Tight glycemic control can reduce the risk of complications that contribute to hearing loss.
4. Protect Your Ears: Avoid exposure to loud noises and use protective equipment when necessary.

Last updated 09/14/2025.