People with arthritis may have an increased risk of hearing loss due to the medications used to treat arthritis or the condition itself.
Medication-Induced Hearing Loss
One likely cause of the concurrence of hearing loss and arthritis is the pain medication people with arthritis take. Researchers hypothesize that aspirin and acetaminophen people with arthritis take to manage the pain may reduce blood flow to the cochlea resulting in permanent damage to the inner ear. Acetaminophen may also deplete the cochlea’s glutathione, a protein that helps protect the cochlea from damage.
Remember to consult your provider before taking large quantities of aspirin and acetaminophen to manage arthritic pain.
Arthritis-Induced Hearing Loss
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a condition in which the immune system attacks joints, beginning with the joint lining. It causes joint pain, stiffness, swelling and tenderness, which worsens with age. With arthritis, activities such as typing or playing pickleball at Bishop Park may feel painful or difficult. Hearing loss from arthritis is believed to be related to the same immune system response.
With arthritis-induced hearing loss, the immune system targets the tissues of the inner ear and causes damage.
Hearing loss co-occurring with rheumatoid arthritis is fairly common. A study comparing 35 patients with RA with 35 patients without found that sensorineural hearing loss (hearing loss of the inner ear) appeared in 60% of the RA group and only 34.29% of the control group. They also tested for conductive hearing loss (a condition where sound cannot transmit through the outer and middle ear) and found that though it was seen in several participants with RA, it was much less common.
What Can You Do About the Link?
If you notice small signs of hearing damage or tinnitus, immediately inform your doctor. Signs may include but are not limited to:
- Misunderstanding words or phrases
- Turning the TV or radio up frequently
- Being unable to follow a conversation
- Hearing a ringing in your ears (tinnitus)
Often, it is your loved ones who will notice these signs first. Consider asking them to keep an eye on you if you are concerned about your hearing. Some hearing loss is temporary. Contacting your provider early will give them time to identify the cause and find a solution. Though a solution is not guaranteed, your doctor may consider a lower dose or alternative drug if your hearing loss is drug-related.
Contact ENT of Athens today to make an appointment for a hearing evaluation.