If you are diabetic, you know the care schedule:
- Daily – Blood sugar check, foot check
- Every 3 Months – A1C Test (if not meeting blood sugar goals)
- Every 6 Months – Dental Exam, A1C Test (if meeting blood sugar goals)
- Every Year – Flu shot, kidney tests, cholesterol test, dilated eye exam, complete foot check
But, from the schedule above, it would seem that something is missing. Even though the National Institutes of Health report that hearing loss is twice as likely in those with diabetes than those without, diabetics are not incorporating annual hearing screenings into their wellness routine.
In December 2020, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) produced its Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes for 2021. These guidelines provide the latest in comprehensive and evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of children and adults with type1, type 2 and gestational diabetes. The ADA’s guidelines now include Audiological care for those with diabetes.
The ADA has added “hearing impairment” as one of the medical impairments associated with diabetes and they are also recommending referrals for Audiological care as part of one’s initial care management. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has even updated their Diabetes Care Schedule to include a yearly hearing check. You can view the CDC’s care schedule here: https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/managing/care-schedule.html
With these new guidelines from the ADA and the CDC’s recommendation, we are hoping that more diabetics realize the importance of taking care of their hearing health.
If you are diabetic, don’t forget to schedule an annual visit with your Audiologist. Your Audiologist will be able to track your hearing health and address any issues you are experiencing with your hearing. To schedule your hearing evaluation, just call Lemme Audiology Associates at (814) 941-7770.
