What could cause deafness?

3 major causes: Deafness is a result of irreversible damage to the ear. Most common is damage from loud noises. Excessive noise will kill ear cells. Next is infection of the inner ear. Viruses, especially cmv, and forms of meningitis kill off ear cells. Tumors of the ear nerve (acoustic neuromas) cause progressive deafness. Rare genetic conditions can result in deafness.