Hearing Loss and Associated Comorbidities: What Do We Know?

©2023 Brian James

Hearing loss is a common condition affecting millions of people worldwide, with many people experiencing it as they age. In the last few years, several studies have surfaced that link hearing loss to a range of other comorbidities, including social isolation and loneliness, depression, balance problems and falls, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cognitive impairment and dementia, and even mortality. It is therefore important to understand the relationship between hearing loss and these comorbidities so that appropriate interventions can be put in place to address the issue.

Social Isolation and Loneliness

Social isolation and loneliness have been linked to hearing loss, with some studies suggesting that hearing loss can cause social isolation and loneliness, while others suggest that social isolation and loneliness can lead to hearing loss. A study conducted in 2018 found that older adults with hearing loss who used hearing aids were less likely to experience social isolation and loneliness [[1]]. This indicates that addressing hearing loss can help mitigate the negative effects of social isolation and loneliness.

Depression

Several studies have also found a link between hearing loss and depression. A study conducted in 2016 found that the odds of a person self-reporting a depressive disorder were 1.5 times greater per 25 dB of hearing loss in the better ear [[3]]. Addressing hearing loss through the use of hearing aids has been found to reduce depressive symptoms and improve overall quality of life [[4]].

Balance Problems and Falls

Hearing loss has also been linked to balance problems and falls, particularly among the elderly. A study conducted in 2012 found that hearing loss was significantly associated with an increased risk of falling in older adults [[2]]. Addressing hearing loss through the use of hearing aids can help reduce the risk of falls and improve balance and stability.

Cardiovascular Disease

Studies have also found a link between hearing loss and cardiovascular disease. A study conducted in 2019 found that hearing loss was significantly associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke [[10]]. This suggests that addressing hearing loss could potentially reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Diabetes

Hearing loss has also been linked to diabetes, with some studies suggesting that hearing loss may be 2 times more common among people with diabetes than those without [[9]]. It is therefore important for people with diabetes to have their hearing tested regularly.

Cognitive Impairment and Dementia

Several studies have found a link between hearing loss and cognitive impairment and dementia. A study conducted in 2011 found that older adults with hearing loss were more likely to develop cognitive impairment and dementia than those without hearing loss [[5]]. Addressing hearing loss through the use of hearing aids has been found to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia [[6]].

Mortality

Finally, several studies have found a link between hearing loss and mortality. A study conducted in 2019 found that hearing loss was significantly associated with an increased risk of mortality [[10]]. Addressing hearing loss through the use of hearing aids can potentially reduce the risk of mortality.

In conclusion, hearing loss is a common condition that is associated with several comorbidities, including social isolation and loneliness, depression, balance problems and falls, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cognitive impairment and dementia, and even mortality. Addressing hearing loss through the use of hearing aids can potentially reduce the negative effects of these comorbidities and improve overall quality of life. It is therefore important to have regular hearing tests and to seek appropriate interventions if hearing loss is detected.

References:

[[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6015451/ [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3410805/ [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih