The Link Between Anemia and Hearing Loss
When most people think of anemia, they picture feeling fatigued, dizzy, or constantly cold. You might not think of hearing loss as a symptom of anemia.
Understanding how anemia can affect your hearing is important, and identifying and treating both issues early is vital.
Can Anemia Cause Hearing Loss?
Anemia happens when you lack enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin. This means your body can't carry enough oxygen. When your red blood cell count or hemoglobin is low, it reduces the flow of oxygen to your hearing system. This impacts how well your brain and ears work together to process sound.
The cochlea is particularly sensitive to low oxygen levels. When the hair cells in that part of the ear are damaged, it can cause hearing loss. This loss can become permanent if anemia is not treated quickly.
Anemia Symptoms that Indicate Hearing Loss
Some symptoms of anemia are similar to those of hearing loss. This difficulty makes it hard to determine if the two conditions are connected. Aside from more obvious signs like fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath, certain symptoms may point to issues with your hearing:
- ringing in your ears
- muffled hearing
- trouble hearing conversations in noisy environments
- a sudden drop in hearing sensitivity
These signs may indicate that iron deficiency and hearing loss are linked in your case. In more severe cases, the oxygen deprivation caused by anemia can damage the tiny hair cells in your cochlea. This can lead to hearing impairment.
Health Conditions That Increase the Risk for Both Anemia and Hearing Loss
Certain health conditions can increase your risk of developing both anemia and hearing problems. These include:
- Diabetes
- Heart and vascular diseases
- Kidney disease
As we age, the chances of developing both an iron deficiency and hearing loss increase. Lifestyle factors like a poor diet, smoking, or drinking too much alcohol can make you more susceptible to these health conditions.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
To check for anemia, your doctor will order a complete blood count (CBC). This test checks your red blood cell and hemoglobin levels. Doctors often manage anemia with iron supplements, vitamin B12 injections, dietary changes, or other medical interventions like iron infusions.
Diagnosing hearing loss requires a professional evaluation and tests that determine the type and severity of your hearing loss. If you have hearing loss, hearing aids can help improve your hearing. They can also ease symptoms of tinnitus and anemia-related hearing loss.
Preventing Anemia and Protecting Your Hearing
Staying on top of your health and protecting your hearing are vital for preventing anemia and its effects on your hearing.
Here are some ways you can reduce your risk of these health conditions:
- Eat a balanced diet rich in iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid.
- Improve circulation by exercising regularly.
- Avoid excessive noise exposure and use hearing protection when needed.
- Get annual checkups and hearing screenings.
Get Your Hearing Checked at Beltone DFW
Anemia and hearing loss might seem unrelated, but they’re more connected than many people understand. If left untreated, anemia can affect your hearing without you realizing it.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of either condition, reach out to your healthcare provider and schedule a free hearing evaluation at Beltone DFW. Our team is here to help you take the next step toward better hearing.
