Causes of Hearing Loss

Damage to the Inner Ear: Aging and exposure to loud noise can lead to wear and tear on the hairs or nerve cells in the cochlea, affecting the transmission of sound signals to the brain. This damage results in inefficient electrical signal transmission, causing hearing loss, especially in higher-pitched tones, which may become muffled.
Gradual Buildup of Earwax: Earwax accumulation can block the ear canal, hindering the conduction of sound waves. Removing earwax can help restore normal hearing.
Ear Infection and Abnormal Growth or Tumors: Conditions affecting the outer or middle ear, such as ear infections or abnormal bone growths, can contribute to hearing loss.
Ruptured Eardrum (Tympanic Membrane Perforation): Loud blasts of noise, sudden pressure changes, physical trauma, or infections can lead to a ruptured eardrum, affecting hearing.

Factors that may contribute to damage or loss of hairs and nerve cells in the inner ear include:

Aging: Degeneration of inner ear structures occurs naturally over time.
Loud Noise Exposure: Prolonged exposure to loud sounds, or sudden exposure to intense noise (e.g., gunfire), can damage inner ear cells.
Heredity: Genetic predisposition may increase susceptibility to ear damage from noise or aging.
Occupational Noises: Jobs with regular exposure to loud noise, such as farming, construction, or factory work, can lead to inner ear damage.
Recreational Noises: Exposure to explosive noises (e.g., firearms, jet engines) and participation in loud recreational activities (e.g., snowmobiling, motorcycling, loud music) can cause immediate, permanent hearing loss.
Certain Medications: Some drugs, including certain antibiotics, sildenafil (Viagra), and certain chemotherapy drugs, can damage the inner ear. High doses of aspirin, pain relievers, antimalarial drugs, or loop diuretics may have temporary effects on hearing.
Some Illnesses: Diseases or illnesses accompanied by high fever, such as meningitis, may result in cochlear damage.