Parkinson’s
& Hearing Health

Parkinson’s Disease and Hearing Loss: Exploring the Possible Connection

When we think of Parkinson’s disease (PD), we often picture the classic motor symptoms—tremors, stiffness, and slowed movement. But did you know that Parkinson’s affects much more than just movement? In fact, research is uncovering a fascinating link between Parkinson’s disease and hearing loss.

Did You Know? Interesting Facts About Parkinson’s Disease

• Named After Dr. James Parkinson: The disease was first described in 1817 by British physician James Parkinson in his writing An Essay on the Shaking Palsy. His work laid the foundation for understanding the condition.
• More Than Just a Movement Disorder: While physical symptoms are the most well-known, Parkinson’s also affects non-motor functions, including cognitive abilities and sensory processing. These can sometimes appear years before motor symptoms appear.
• Early Signs Aren’t Always Obvious: Before tremors appear, early signs can include constipation, loss of smell, sleep disturbances, subtle handwriting changes (micrographia), and even hearing loss.
• Young-Onset Parkinson’s Exists: While most cases occur after age 60, about 10% of diagnoses happen before 50. Actor Michael J. Fox was diagnosed at just 29 years old and became a leading advocate for Parkinson’s research. Boxing legend Muhammad Ali was also diagnosed with the disease, bringing further attention to its impact.
• Parkinson’s Research is Ongoing: There’s no cure yet, but scientists are making progress in understanding genetic links, new treatments, and even potential ways to slow the disease.

Parkinson’s Disease and Hearing Loss:

What Research Says About the Possible Connection Between the Two Conditions

Researchers are discovering that hearing loss may be more than just an unrelated symptom—it could be an early warning sign of Parkinson’s disease. 

Here’s what we know so far:

1. People with Parkinson’s Disease Have a Higher Risk of Hearing Loss

Studies suggest that hearing impairment is more common in people with Parkinson’s. In fact, a large study in Taiwan found that individuals with hearing loss had a significantly higher risk of developing Parkinson’s later in life.

2. Possible Causes of Hearing Loss in People with PD

• Neurodegeneration: The same nerve cell damage that affects movement may also impact the brain’s ability to process sound.
• Central Auditory Dysfunction: Some researchers believe Parkinson’s affects how the brain interprets auditory signals—not just the ears themselves.
• Inflammation & Oxidative Stress: Chronic inflammation in the brain, a known factor in Parkinson’s progression, could also contribute to hearing problems.
• Medication Side Effects: While not a primary cause, some Parkinson’s medications may have ototoxic (ear-damaging) effects.

3. Could Hearing Loss Be an Early Symptom of Parkinson’s Disease?

Some studies suggest that hearing difficulties may appear before motor symptoms like tremors. Since PD affects multiple sensory systems, researchers are exploring whether hearing loss could be used as an early diagnostic clue.

4. How Parkinson’s and Hearing Changes Impact Quality of Life

Hearing loss can make communication harder, leading to social isolation, cognitive decline, and depression—challenges that many Parkinson’s patients already face. The good news? Hearing aids and auditory therapy may help improve brain function and overall well-being. 

One recent study examined the health records of 7,296,051 U.S. veterans who had an audiogram done between January of 1999 and December of 2022. Results showed that individuals with hearing loss face a significantly higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease later in life, with the greatest risk observed in those with the most severe hearing impairment. However, the veterans who received a hearing aid within two years of an abnormal hearing test had a significantly lower risk of developing Parkinson’s disease later in life.

What Can You Do?

PD is complex, but with more research, we’re learning how interconnected different parts of the body truly are. The more we understand about the link between hearing loss and Parkinson’s disease, the better we can detect and manage this condition early on.

If you or a loved one have noticed hearing difficulties—especially alongside other subtle changes like loss of smell or sleep disturbances—it may be worth discussing with a doctor. Regardless of the cause, addressing hearing loss early can help maintain cognitive health and improve quality of life. 

Schedule a hearing evaluation with our Mesa or Scottsdale audiologists today and take the first step toward managing your hearing health.