Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder and an autoimmune disease that affects the joints. It can impact your ability to enjoy activities you once loved, like going to concerts at Granada Theater. In addition to painful swelling of the joints, RA has actually been linked to a number of other conditions, including hearing loss. We explore this link below.
Rheumatoid Arthritis & Hearing Loss Statistics
RA has been found to increase the risk of both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. Conductive hearing loss is the result of damage to the outer or middle ear so sound cannot pass through. Sensorineural hearing loss is caused by damage to the structures within the inner ear so that sound signals cannot be processed correctly.
- According to a 2016 review, the rate of sensorineural hearing loss among those with RA ranges from 25% to 72%.
- A 2001 study found that 60% of participants with RA had sensorineural in both ears, compared to just 34.29% of participants without RA.
Why the Link Between Rheumatoid Arthritis & Hearing Loss?
There are a few theories as to how RA and hearing loss are linked.
RA Medications
One theory is that certain drugs that people with RA take are ototoxic. For instance, regular use of the over-the-counter pain relievers ibuprofen and acetaminophen have been linked to hearing loss. Experts theorize this is because these drugs reduce blood flow to the ears, depriving the cells that convert soundwaves into electrical impulses the brain interprets as sound of oxygen.
In addition, people with RA may have to take antibiotics that are ototoxic if they develop an infection due to taking immunosuppressants. The antibiotics streptomycin and neomycin increase the risk of hearing loss.
RA Pathology
Like other autoimmune conditions, RA causes the body to attack healthy tissues, including tissues and nerves within the ears, which can affect hearing.
In addition, rheumatoid nodules, which are firm lumps that develop under the skin, can grow in the ears, causing conductive hearing loss. For more information about the link between RA and hearing loss or to schedule an appointment, call Total Hearing Care of Dallas today.
