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Journal Watch: Impact of Tinnitus on Quality of Life

For the over 50 million Americans with tinnitus, it is no surprise that their constant ear or head noises has the ability to affect their quality of life. Now researchers from the University of Wisconsin and Arizona State University have documented clear associations between tinnitus and reduced quality of life. The five-year study, published in the March issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Audiology, included almost 2800 subjects with an average age of sixty-nine. The study’s authors concluded that quality of life is diminished in those with tinnitus, and the effect increases with increasing severity of the tinnitus. It is expected that the number of individuals who will be negatively affected by tinnitus will increase along with improvements in longevity. The authors of the study suggest “additional efforts to identify effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, to increase the quality of life experienced by older adults”.

Diabetes and Hearing Loss?

Diabetes Health is an inspiring magazine dedicated to helping those with diabetes lead healthier lives. The most recent issue (April/ May 2007) features an article contributed by yours truly. Here are some highlights. Research studies have shown that people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes experience more hearing loss than their non-diabetic peers. This is attributed to changes in the small blood vessels responsible for transporting nutrients to the inner ear. As a result of compromised blood flow, atrophy and death of the inner ear’s sensory hair cells occurs leading to hearing loss. The article concludes by offering key habits every person managing diabetes should incorporate into their preventive healthcare routine, including: annual hearing evaluations by a licensed hearing healthcare provider, thorough ear examinations by a physician, care in noisy occupational and recreational environments and simply being mindful and appreciate the wonderful sense of hearing that connects us to our world.

Also, if you or someone you love is managing diabetes I suggest taking a few moments to visit Diabetes Mine. This blog authored by Amy Tenderich offers daily updates on what's going on in the world of diabetes. Diabetes Mine is a valuable resource for anyone touched by this rapidly growing health issue.