While many are familiar with sleep apnea as a condition that affects breathing during sleep, fewer are aware of its potential impact on hearing health. According to a 2022 observational study of close to 7,000 older adults in Europe, people with sleep apnea are 21% more likely to have hearing impairment.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, known as apneas, can last from a few seconds to a minute and can occur multiple times per hour. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), happens when the muscles in the throat relax too much, blocking the airway. This leads to fragmented sleep and a drop in blood oxygen levels, which can have various negative effects on the body.
The Connection Between Sleep Apnea And Hearing Loss
Here’s what the research suggests is contributing to hearing loss:
Reduced Blood Flow to the Ear:
- Sleep apnea can cause significant drops in blood oxygen levels due to interrupted breathing. This reduction in oxygen can affect the blood flow to the cochlea, the part of the ear responsible for hearing. The cochlea relies on a steady supply of oxygen-rich blood to function correctly, and any disruption can lead to damage, potentially resulting in hearing loss.
Increased Inflammation:
- Sleep apnea is linked to chronic inflammation in the body, including the auditory system. Increased levels of inflammatory markers might contribute to damage to the cochlea and auditory nerve, leading to hearing loss.
Vascular Changes:
- Changes in blood flow and vascular health are associated with sleep apnea, which disrupts normal cardiovascular function. These vascular changes may affect the blood supply to the inner ear, impairing its function and contributing to hearing loss.
Shared Risk Factors:
- Hearing loss and sleep apnea share several risk factors, including obesity, aging, and diabetes. These common risk factors may contribute to the observed association between the two conditions.
Recognizing The Signs Of Hearing Loss In Sleep Apnea Patients
If you have sleep apnea, it’s important to be aware of the potential signs of hearing loss. Some of the key indicators include:
- Difficulty hearing in noisy environments
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
- A sensation of ringing or fullness in the ears (tinnitus)
- Increasing the volume on devices like the television or radio
Protecting Your Hearing Health
Managing sleep apnea effectively is a crucial step in protecting your hearing health. Here are some strategies that can help:
- Treatment Compliance – If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea, it’s important to follow your treatment plan closely. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is one of the most common treatments and helps keep your airways open during sleep, reducing the risk of hearing damage.
- Regular Hearing Check-Ups – Schedule regular hearing evaluations, especially if you have sleep apnea. Early detection of hearing loss can lead to more effective management and treatment options.
- Healthy Lifestyle Choices – Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can mitigate the effects of sleep apnea and reduce the risk of hearing loss. This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Monitor Noise Exposure – Be mindful of noise exposure, particularly if you snore loudly or are exposed to loud snoring. Using earplugs or other protective measures can help prevent further auditory damage.
Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can have far-reaching effects on your health, including your hearing. By understanding the connection between sleep apnea and hearing loss, and by taking proactive steps to manage both conditions, you can protect your hearing and improve your overall well-being.
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At Hearing Services of Delaware, we’re dedicated to your hearing health. If you or a loved one notice a change in your hearing, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our certified hearing care professionals.