Audiology On Call, North Fulton’s Hearing Care Experts Offer Insights on How Your Weight Might Be Affecting Your Hearing
Obesity’s impact on our health is a growing concern across the globe. It’s well known for its role in many health issues including heart disease and diabetes, but its effect on our hearing health is not often discussed. Yet, the connection between obesity and hearing loss is a critical aspect of overall health that deserves attention. Here are some insights from the hearing care experts, Audiology On Call.
Types of Hearing Loss Associated with Obesity
- Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss occurs when there are problems with the eardrum, ear canal, or middle ear and its little bones (the malleus, incus, and stapes). This type of hearing loss can be exacerbated by obesity in several ways:
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- Obesity and Ear Infections: Obesity can lead to more frequent ear infections, which can cause conductive hearing loss. This happens due to the increased pressure in the head and neck area, which affects the Eustachian tube’s ability to drain fluid properly.
- Higher Fat Deposits: Excess fat deposits can narrow the ear canal, hindering the transmission of sound waves.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Sensorineural Hearing LossSensorineural hearing loss is the most common type of permanent hearing loss. It occurs when the inner ear or the nerve pathways from the inner ear to the brain are damaged.
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- Obesity-Related Health Conditions: Conditions often found in conjunction with obesity, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, can damage the inner ear’s delicate structures and lead to sensorineural hearing loss.
- Reduced Blood Flow: Excess weight increases the likelihood of atherosclerosis, where plaque builds up in the arteries, reducing blood flow. This can starve the cochlea of the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function correctly.
- Mixed Hearing Loss
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. There could be damage in the outer or middle ear and in the inner ear or auditory nerve. Obesity can be a contributing factor to both types, thus leading to mixed hearing loss.
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- Systemic Inflammation: Obesity is often associated with systemic inflammation, which can contribute to both conductive and sensorineural damage.
Being Proactive About Better Health and Hearing Loss
Understanding the connection between obesity and hearing loss is the first step toward taking control of your auditory health. Here are actionable steps to mitigate the risk:
Embrace a Healthier Lifestyle: A balanced diet and regular exercise can help manage weight and reduce the risk of obesity-related hearing loss.
Regular Medical Checkups: Regular checkups can help manage risk factors like high blood pressure and diabetes, which also contribute to hearing loss.
Stay Vigilant for Hearing Loss Symptoms: Difficulty understanding conversations, frequently asking people to repeat themselves, or needing to increase device volume could signal hearing loss.
Addressing Hearing Loss with Audiology On Call, The Hearing Care Experts
If you suspect your hearing isn’t what it used to be, or if you’re interested in maintaining your auditory health as part of your wellness routine, Audiology On Call is here to support you. Our convenient at-home hearing assessments mean that taking the first step towards better hearing is easier than ever.
With Audiology On Call, you gain access to hearing care experts who provide personalized care right in your home. We understand that your hearing is vital to your quality of life, and our goal is to ensure you’re not missing out on the sounds that matter most to you.
Don’t let hearing loss be the silent side effect of obesity. Take action today by scheduling your at-home hearing assessment with Audiology On Call.
Contact Us Now or Call Us at (833) 244-3275
