Final answer:
Repeated exposure to loud sounds, aging, head or acoustic trauma, infections, certain medications, tumors, and exposure to toxins are factors that can increase the risk for adult hearing loss.
Step-by-step explanation:
There are several factors that can increase the risk for adult hearing loss. One of the most common causes is repeated exposure to loud sounds, such as loud music or construction equipment. Very loud sounds can damage the tiny hair cells lining the cochlea, which are responsible for hearing. Once these hair cells are destroyed, they do not grow back, resulting in permanent hearing loss. Aging, head or acoustic trauma, infections, certain medications, tumors, and exposure to toxins are also factors that can contribute to hearing loss.