About 15% of adults in the United States report experiencing some form of hearing difficulty each year. While hearing loss can arise from various causes, including genetics, noise exposure and aging, emerging studies indicate that underlying health conditions, such as anemia, may also play a role in auditory health.
Understanding Anemia
Anemia is a condition where the body doesn’t produce enough healthy red blood cells to carry sufficient oxygen to tissues and organs. The most prevalent form, known as iron-deficiency anemia, results from a shortage of iron, which is necessary to create hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying component of red blood cells.
Common symptoms of anemia include:
- Persistent fatigue
- Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
- Pale or sallow skin tone
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Cold extremities
- Irregular or fast heart rate
Because oxygen delivery is vital for every cell in the body, a deficiency can disrupt a wide range of bodily systems, including those involved in hearing.
Possible Ways Anemia May Affect Hearing
Although research is still ongoing, scientists have proposed several explanations for how anemia might be linked to hearing changes:
- Decreased oxygen to the cochlea: The cochlea is a critical structure in the inner ear that processes sound. It relies on a steady supply of oxygen-rich blood. When anemia limits oxygen availability, the cochlea may not function as efficiently.
- Potential for nerve damage: Ongoing anemia may harm nerve health throughout the body, including the auditory nerve, which is responsible for sending sound signals to the brain.
- Wider inflammatory effects: Certain forms of anemia may trigger systemic inflammation, which could indirectly influence hearing by altering immune responses or blood flow.
Some studies have identified a connection between iron-deficiency anemia and both sudden and sensorineural hearing loss. While more research is needed to confirm the exact nature of the relationship, these findings highlight the importance of whole-body health in maintaining strong hearing function.
Who May Be Most at Risk?
The risk of experiencing both anemia and hearing issues may be higher for specific groups, such as:
- Older adults
- Individuals with chronic illnesses
- Pregnant women
- People with limited iron intake or poor nutrition
What Steps Should You Take?
If you’re noticing symptoms of anemia or suspect your hearing has changed, here are a few actions you can take:
- Request a blood test: A basic blood panel can detect anemia and help determine its cause.
- Get your hearing checked: A hearing specialist can assess your hearing and provide guidance based on your results.
- Focus on iron-rich nutrition: Foods like spinach, red meat, beans and fortified cereals can support red blood cell production.
- Talk to your doctor about supplements: If your iron levels remain low, your provider may suggest iron supplements or additional nutrients.
- Track your hearing health: Pay attention to any new or worsening hearing symptoms and discuss them with your healthcare team, especially during periods of illness or fatigue.
Being proactive about both your general health and hearing wellness is key to identifying and managing issues early.
To schedule a hearing test for yourself or a loved one, contact Gulf Coast Audiology today.