Viral Infections
Viral infections of the inner ear or auditory nerve, which can include mumps, measles or rubella, also can cause damage to the hair cells in the inner ear or the auditory nerve. It also can result from a meningitis infection or from encephalitis, which is an inflammation of the brain.
Ménière's disease
Ménière's disease is a condition that causes periods of hearing loss, which are often accompanied by vertigo spells, tinnitus and feeling like there is a blockage in the ear.
Acoustic Neuroma
An acoustic neuroma is a benign (non-cancerous) growth that occurs on or near the auditory nerve, resulting in hearing loss.
Multiple Sclerosis
Hearing loss is a common symptom associated with the onset of multiple sclerosis (MS), an autoimmune condition that causes the body to attack the central nervous system.
Stroke
When the blood supply to the brain is cut off, as in the case of a stroke, hearing loss can result.