Current study: Does iron deficiency cause hearing loss?

How does anemia caused by Eisenmangel and sensorineural hearing loss, i.e. sensorineural hearing loss? A question that a team of doctors from Penn State University in the USA recently wanted to get to the bottom of. Their aim was to substantiate an initial suspicion that has been circulating in professional circles for a good two years and, much more importantly, to prove the therapeutic administration of iron supplements in the area of ​​prevention.

The connection between iron deficiency and hearing loss seems to be confirmed

To arrive at a result, Kathleen M. Schieffer's team evaluated the medical records of over 300.000 adult patients at Penn State University from 2011 to 2015. All patients were on average 50 years old. 0,7 percent of them suffered from anemia caused by iron deficiency. Hearing loss in the form of impaired sound perception was also diagnosed in 0,7 percent of patients. After completing the evaluations, one result was a clear correspondence in the cases that had hearing loss in combination with anemia caused by iron deficiency. Specifically, this is hearing loss that affects the inner ear, i.e. the cochlea and the auditory nerve leading to the brain, or other levels of the auditory pathway. The perceived sound waves are transmitted in this area. If disturbances occur here, hearing loss can occur. Since the cochlea is supplied exclusively via the labyrinthine artery, its function is likely to be impaired in the event of iron deficiency. The lack of oxygen in the blood caused by iron deficiency has a negative effect on the blood vessels. This can cause major damage to such a delicate organ as the cochlea. It is also suspected that anemia caused by iron deficiency leads to a weakened transmission of energy in the nervous system, which can lead to reduced hearing.

Further studies on the influence of iron deficiency on hearing are needed

Since the result is not yet representative, the doctors around Kathleen M. Schieffer recommend further research into a possible influence of iron deficiency on sensorineural hearing loss. The aim should be, among other things, to find sensible treatment approaches. Because it is not yet clear whether early detection Diagnosis Therapeutic administration of iron supplements can reduce or even prevent impending hearing loss.