Shingles & Hearing Loss
February 15, 2022
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February 15, 2022
“A child who has one developmental problem may have other problems that arose at the same time: Kidney problems and hearing problems, for example, are often found together because both kidneys and the inner ears develop at the same time.” Dr. C. George Boeree
In utero is one example of a possible connection between ears and kidneys. Individuals with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) also presents with a higher likelihood of hearing loss.
Tissues of the kidney and the inner ear are similar and share a common metabolic function, therefore problems that affect kidney function can also damage the inner ear. High blood pressure, diabetes and a family history of CKD can increase your risk of developing kidney problems and hearing problems. High blood pressure can cause CKD and CKD can cause high blood pressure. Diabetes can cause damage to many organs in your body including the kidneys, heart, blood vessels and the inner ear. 
A genetic syndrome, Alport Syndrome, characterized by kidney disease, hearing loss and eye abnormalities is another instance of the connection between ears and kidneys.
People with Alport syndrome experience progressive loss of kidney function. Almost all affected individuals have blood in their urine (hematuria), which indicates abnormal functioning of the kidneys. Many people with Alport syndrome also develop high levels of protein in their urine (proteinuria). The kidneys become less able to function as this condition progresses, resulting in end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
People with Alport syndrome frequently develop sensorineural hearing loss, which is caused by abnormalities of the inner ear, during late childhood or early adolescence.
It seems like the relationship or connection between the ear and the kidney is multi-faceted, it remains an interesting connection.
It is recommended that individuals with kidney problems have their hearing assessed frequently.
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2 Comments
My tinnitus started after I had a specialized procedure whereby the surgeon placed a scope through my urethra all the way up to my kidney
I had severe kidney pain for a day followed by hematuria for a week after. I didn’t sleep for 3 days and emerged with tinnitus which had progressively become worse.
I am sorry to hear about your tinnitus, have you seen an audiologist for an evaluation? Regards Spectrum Audiologists | Yolande vd Westhuizen Audiologists