Sleep apnea has a perceivable effect on the hearing health of an individual. Since the ear remains connected to the nose and throat by the Eustachian tube, there are more reasons to think the impact of prolonged sleep apnea on the ear. Several studies conducted over the years have validated that there exists a solid link between sleep apnea and hearing loss. Some of the results produced from these studies are quite alarming, as it states that there is an increased possibility of hearing loss among individuals that experience the symptoms of sleep apnea.

There is also the risk of a high frequency hearing among individuals prone to sleep apnea. If left untreated it can lead to a permanent hearing loss in an individual. Therefore, it is better to diagnose the ear health by a trained Ear Nose Throat (ENT) specialist if an individual experience any symptoms of sleep apnea.

Sleep Apnea and Hearing Loss

Sleep apnea affects the functioning of the ear in a passive manner. Its most powerful impact is on the circulatory system of an individual that can cause it extensive damage. While a person is experiencing sleep apnea, it can result in the blood vessels to become disturbed due to the pauses in breathing and other irregularities. This can affect the normal blood flow to the inner ear that will prevent it from functioning properly.

There is also the presence of loud snoring along with sleep apnea that can continue for a long time during sleep. The ears being active during sleep can become disturbed due to the loud snoring sound. This can actually damage the sensitive hair cells located in the inner ear that helps in hearing. Besides, the change in air pressure that happens during sleep apnea and snoring can also cause damage to the eardrums.

Treatment

Treating hearing issues associated with sleep apnea first requires a two-step approach. The first is addressing the sleep apnea problem and relieving it so that it causes no interference with the functioning of the ear. This is important since sleep apnea can persist even after treating the ear, thus repeating the issues.

Using anti snoring devices is the best option to alleviate sleep apnea in affected individuals. They position the airways in such a way that it facilitates easy breathing during sleep, which prevents snoring or sleep apnea in the first place. Snoring devices are an effective and affordable option to permanently cure sleep apnea. t

The second step is to consult a hearing specialist, while undergoing the treatment for sleep apnea, and determine the health of the ear to follow the necessary medications.