{Image: A arm and hand with IV tubes in it is lying at a person’s side. A red bracelet that says allergy and a white bracelet with black markings are around the arm. There is a hospital bed remote control laying next to the arm.}  Meningitis and encephalitis are the two most common infections that can result in a combined hearing and vision loss.

Meningitis is the term used when the membranes surrounding the brain become inflamed because of a bacterial or viral infection. Encephalitis refers to inflammation of the brain occurring as a result of a virus or a bug bite.

As a result of the swelling and pressure brought on by both conditions, brain damage can occur resulting in vision and hearing loss. This is most commonly seen in meningitis. This damage can cause a variety of conditions including seizures, motor disabilities and intellectual disabilities. Vision loss related to meningitis can be permanent or temporary depending on the damage to the optic nerve. Meningitis can also result in sensorineural hearing loss.