A Study on the Effect of Diabetes Mellitus on Sensorineural and Conductive Hearing Loss

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder known to cause microvascular and neuropathic complications. Its effect on the auditory system has gained increasing attention, with studies suggesting that prolonged hyperglycaemia may lead to both sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. Aim: To evaluate the effect of diabetes mellitus on sensorineural and conductive hearing loss and to assess the association between duration of diabetes and degree of hearing impairment. Materials and Methods: A hospital-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 individuals, including 50 patients with diabetes mellitus and 50 age-matched non-diabetic controls. All participants underwent pure tone audiometry and otoscopic examination. Hearing thresholds were measured at frequencies from 250 Hz to 8000 Hz. Data were analysed using statistical software and compared between groups. Results: Hearing loss was detected in 62% of diabetic patients compared to 18% in the control group (p < 0.001). Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) was the most common type (48%), followed by mixed hearing loss (10%) and conductive hearing loss (4%). A significant correlation was found between the duration of diabetes and severity of hearing loss. Conclusion: Diabetes mellitus significantly affects auditory function, predominantly causing sensorineural hearing loss. Early screening of hearing in diabetic patients is recommended to prevent progression and improve quality of life.