Not only does smoking increase the risk of developing certain cancers, heart disease, and other health problems, but it may also lead to hearing loss. According to a recent study involving over 50,000 people between the ages of 20 and 64 who underwent annual hearing assessments for eight years, smokers were found to be significantly more likely than never-smokers and former smokers to develop hearing loss, especially in the high-frequency range. While the risk of hearing loss increased with the number of cigarettes smoked each day, the risk declined for people who quit smoking even if they quit less than five years after the study began. This latter finding provides smokers with even more reason to give up their habit.
If you’d like to know more about better hearing, now is a good time to The Ear Clinicto ask questions and get answers. Our staff can bring you up to date on the latest research and technology in the hearing healthcare industry. In addition to our extensive education and advanced equipment, we offer the most important benefit of all—long-term care and a future of unequalled service. Call us at 226-909-0966 to arrange a comprehensive evaluation by a Doctor of Audiology and an exploration of the amazing hearing instruments available today. We’re located at 46 Nelson Street W., across from the LCBO.
P.S. The nicotine in cigarettes causes hearing loss by tightening blood vessels and restricting blood flow in the ears.