Diseases or illness-related hearing loss are among some of the most common causes of hearing loss. The medical conditions that can lead to hearing loss vary in terms of type and severity, and most can affect individuals of any age.
Some of the most common conditions linked to hearing loss are infections such as meningitis or otitis media, a type of middle ear infection. The risk of hearing loss becomes greater with repeat infections, highlighting the need for prompt medical attention and ongoing prevention. Other disorders that can lead to hearing loss include autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, which can attack healthy cells in the auditory system and require comprehensive medical care, as well as vascular issues like atherosclerosis and hypertension that lead to poor blood circulation and trauma to the blood vessels of the ear. Neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis can also contribute to hearing loss by disrupting the neural pathways that take sound vibrations and send them to the brain for processing.
Note that our genes can predispose us to hearing loss from certain diseases. Likewise, certain medications can have adverse reactions that affect hearing, including some chemotherapy drugs and medications used for radiation therapy, so make sure to fully discuss potential side effects with a healthcare provider before taking a new medication.
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