Temporary hearing loss may also be due to an inner ear infection centered in the semicircular canals. Deafness from sounds. Sensory loss can be caused by exposure to loud sounds over a long period of time. Anyone who is constantly around loud music, gunfire, or heavy machinery is at risk of damaging the sensitive cells that line the cochlea. The inner ear can also be affected by allergies or drug use.
Some genetic diseases have deafness as one component.
Prevention and possible actions Before birth. To prevent a common form of congenital deafness, women of childbearing age should be up to date with vaccinations against rubella . Infants and young children. All respiratory infections should be monitored to prevent earaches and otitis media. Earaches should be treated promptly before any damage is done to the ear by bacterial or viral infection.