Diabetes Mellitus and Hearing Loss: A Complex Relationship

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Endocrinology
• Diabetology

Background:

• The relationship between diabetes (DM) and hearing loss (HL) is debated, with evidence suggesting a causal link beyond simple comorbidity.
• Diabetic populations show a higher prevalence of sensorineural HL (SNHL) and idiopathic sudden sensorineural HL (ISSNHL).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and discuss the literature on the relationship between DM and HL.
• To explore potential pathophysiological mechanisms linking DM to auditory impairment.
• To summarize studies on auditory evaluation in diabetic patients and the association with ISSNHL.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of articles reporting relevant information on DM and HL.
• Discussion of studies on auditory evaluation in subjects with DM1 and DM2.
• Analysis of the relationship between DM and ISSNHL.

Main Results:

• DM is a risk factor for SNHL, though some studies show no association after adjusting for age, gender, and hypertension.
• Macro- and microvascular complications of DM and hypertension can impair cochlear function.
• These vascular insults affect blood flow, oxygen exchange, and ion transport crucial for cochlear cells.

Conclusions:

• Confounding factors complicate definitive conclusions from human studies.
• Further laboratory research is essential to elucidate the specific pathophysiological mechanisms of diabetic hearing damage.
• Investigating pharmacological interventions to counteract these effects is warranted.