04/24/2026
With smoking imagery showing back up in pop culture, it can be easy to forget that smoking affects more than just the lungs and heart. It can also impact hearing. 🚬👂Long-term studies show that people who smoke often have more difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments, compared to those who have never smoked.
Smoking affects circulation throughout the body, including the tiny blood vessels that support the inner ear. Over time, this reduced blood flow can contribute to permanent hearing damage.
If you currently smoke or have smoked in the past and are noticing changes in your hearing, a hearing evaluation can be an important first step. 👂