HEARING LOSS FROM OTOSCLEROSIS

Otosclerosis is a disorder of the bone that surrounds the inner ear. A more accurate term for this is otospongiosis, which means spongy bone. This disorder often occurs in the bones, between the middle and the inner ear. The stapes is a tiny middle ear bone that transmits sound waves by banging on another area, like a stick on a drum creates sound. Otosclerosis can cause the stapes to become fixed, so that it cannot "beat on" the drum.

Many people are unaware they have otosclerosis. When it affects the inner ear, nerve deafness and dizziness may result. One or both ears may be affected. It is almost always accompanied by ringing in the ear, which is called tinnitus.

About one million people in the U.S. are affected by this hereditary ear disorder. It may occur in childhood, but hearing loss does not occur until a person is 20 to 40 years old. It is mostly seen in white women and may become active during pregnancy. It is also one of the leading causes of hearing loss in the elderly.

Unlike some causes of hearing loss, a hearing loss caused by otosclerosis can be treated. Treatment includes surgery to stabilize or replace the small bones of the inner ear. Surgery can usually return hearing to a normal or near normal status. If surgery is not possible, a hearing aid may be helpful.

If you suspect a hearing loss or have ringing in your ears, contact your healthcare provider for a hearing test. A hearing test can determine the degree and type of hearing loss.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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