Otosclerosis

Find out about otosclerosis, what the symptoms are, what to do if you think you have it, what the causes are and what treatments are available.

Otosclerosis is a problem with the bones inside the ear that can cause severe hearing loss over time. Hearing aids or surgery will usually improve your hearing.

Symptoms of otosclerosis include:

  • gradual hearing loss in 1 or both ears, often over several years
  • hearing ringing, buzzing or other noises in 1 or both ears (tinnitus)
  • dizziness
  • problems with your balance

Otosclerosis is a common cause of hearing loss in younger adults. Symptoms usually start between the ages of 30 to 50.

If you have symptoms of otosclerosis, you should see a GP so they can find out what is causing them.

See a GP if:

  • you think your hearing is gradually getting worse
  • you have tinnitus regularly or constantly
  • your tinnitus is getting worse
  • your tinnitus is bothering you – for example, it's affecting your sleep or concentration, or is making you feel anxious or depressed

If you have symptoms of otosclerosis, your GP will usually check inside your ears and may refer you to:

  • an audiologist, for hearing tests
  • an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist, who will look inside your ears and may arrange a CT scan

The 2 main treatment options for otosclerosis are hearing aids or surgery.

Hearing aids work by making the sounds around you louder. They can help you hear more easily, but they will not stop your hearing from getting worse.

You may also be offered surgery to remove 1 of the small bones (the stapes) in your affected ear or ears. If your stapes is removed, it will be replaced by a plastic or metal implant.

Surgery is usually very successful at improving hearing, but there are some risks that your surgeon will discuss with you.

You will usually be referred to an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT) who will help you decide which treatment may be best for you.

Otosclerosis happens when a tiny bone inside your ear, called the stapes, joins (fuses) with other parts of the ear and stops you being able to hear properly.

It's not known why otosclerosis happens, but it may be passed on in families. You are more likely to get otosclerosis if a close relative has it.

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