While most people are familiar with the common causes of hearing loss, there are some surprising risk factors that can enhance the risk of hearing loss.
Hearing loss can be the result of many different causes. Some of the most common include natural agents, genetics, and exposure to loud noises. Most people are familiar with these causes. But there are some surprising risk factors that can enhance the risk of hearing loss.
Chronic Stress
It’s not uncommon for everyone to experience periods of high stress in their life. Those who suffer from chronic stress are at a higher risk of developing hearing problems. It’s thought that this is a result of poor circulation throughout the body. Whenever you’re under acute stress, your body will divert oxygen to your muscles. This leaves your inner ear deprived of the oxygen and blood circulation it needs to function.
Excessive Drinking
Another factor that can put you at a higher risk for hearing problems is excessive drinking. When a person drinks in excess, they will damage the central auditory cortex. This is the part of the brain that handles processing sound. Many people who drink in excess will start to have hearing problems at lower frequencies.
Iron Deficiency
Researchers have discovered a relationship between iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and hearing loss. Those who have IDA are twice as likely to develop hearing loss than those who don’t have this blood disorder. While it’s not understood yet why there is a link between the two, there are some hypotheses. Iron is a necessary mineral for the body. It provides a healthy blood supply for your body, including the hair cells in your inner ear. When there is a deficiency, these hair cells can’t get the blood they need to process sound.
Sleep Apnea
Another condition that will increase your risk of hearing loss is sleep apnea. Professionals have seen a link in those with sleep apnea and those with hearing loss. It’s thought that sleep apnea obstructs a healthy supply of blood to the inner ear. The loud noise of snoring can also play a role in damaging one’s ability to hear.
Vaping
Many people turn to vaping as an alternative to smoking cigarettes. But, they’re still getting powerful nicotine sent into their bloodstream. This addictive chemical restricts blood flow to various parts of the body. It’s thought that nicotine from vaping restricts blood flow to the hair cells in your inner ear. This obstructs your ability to interpret and send sounds to the brain. Apart from vaping, those who smoke and chew are also at a higher risk of developing hearing loss.
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If you’re having trouble hearing, then it’s time to give us a call. Let our hearing care professionals check your hearing. We can provide you with treatment options that can work best for you. Schedule an appointment with us today!
