
Otosclerosis is a condition that sees abnormal bone growth occur within the middle ear. It causes the stapes, otherwise known as the ‘stirrup’ bone, to fuse with the bone that surrounds it, preventing sound from being efficiently transmitted to the inner ear.
The most common symptoms associated with otosclerosis include: gradual hearing loss; difficulty hearing low pitched sounds while finding it easier to hear in situations with background noise; tinnitus; dizziness and vertigo; balance issues.
Most people living with the condition tend to start noticing the symptoms of otosclerosis as they enter their 20s and 30s. The condition may affect one ear or both, with its severity varying from case to case.
If the symptoms of otosclerosis go unnoticed or are ignored, the condition will continue to worsen. If you notice that your hearing has changed, it is always best to seek medical advice.
For those living with otosclerosis, limited treatment options are available. Non-surgical treatments for otosclerosis currently include regular monitoring and the use of hearing aids.
Mild cases of otosclerosis may not initially require treatment but it is important that the progression of the condition is monitored closely. Regular hearing tests make it easier to identify if there has been any progression in the hearing loss experienced or if any additional symptoms have developed.
For more severe cases of otosclerosis, surgery may be recommended. One of two procedures may be performed: a stapedectomy or a stapedotomy.
The success rate of otosclerosis surgery is quite high, with the procedures successfully restoring the hearing of those living with otosclerosis in more than 90% of cases. As with any form of surgery, however, it is important to remember there are some risks that accompany otosclerosis surgery. These include increased hearing loss, the development or worsening of tinnitus, vertigo, an altered sense of taste and facial weakness.
Before you decide whether to proceed with surgery, it’s a good idea to discuss the potential risks with your surgeon.
Getting regular hearing checks is an important step in maintaining your overall health and wellness. Our online hearing test is a good place to start on your hearing health and the test involves checking your hearing in 6 different social scenarios.