You may think that hearing loss is simply one of the side effects of aging, but your overall health can actually play a big part in your hearing health as well. Here are a few ways in which certain health conditions can affect your hearing. To address or improve hearing issues in Jupiter, FL, the professionals at South Florida ENT Associates are available to help.

Cardiovascular health

Research over the last few decades has shown that heart health can affect hearing health. There are tiny cells in your inner ear called hair cells that convert sound into electrical signals. These signals are then sent to your brain to be interpreted, but when there are cardiovascular problems, your heart is not able to pump a sufficient amount of blood to these hair cells, causing them to become damaged or destroyed. The loss of hair cells leads to hearing loss.

Diabetes

It has been found that hearing loss is approximately twice as prevalent in those with diabetes than in those without. The reason for this could be that diabetes narrows the main artery running to the inner ear. Like with cardiovascular issues, this compromises the blood supply to the hair cells. Additionally, it can damage the nerves that subsequently send the sound information to the brain, inhibiting your ability to hear clearly.

Oral health

This connection might be the most surprising, but your oral health can also affect your hearing health. Recent research has found that periodontal disease can result in bacteria and toxins entering the bloodstream. This can increase the chances of cardiovascular disease, which in turn, can lead to hearing loss.

Thyroid health

Graves’ disease is a common autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism or an overactive thyroid gland. More research is needed to clarify the connection, but it is believed that this is because the hormones produced by the thyroid control how the body uses energy, which affects the whole body, including the heart. If you are experiencing problems with your hearing in Jupiter, FL, visit the professionals at South Florida ENT Associates.