Otosclerosis

at Allergy & ENT Associates of Middle TN

Otosclerosis is an abnormal growth of bone in the middle ear that causes hearing loss. It typically begins in early adulthood and is the leading cause of middle ear hearing loss in young adults. The condition most often affects the stapes bone, interfering with its ability to transmit sound efficiently.


At Allergy & ENT Associates, our specialists provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment options to help manage hearing loss associated with otosclerosis.

What Otosclerosis Can Affect

Otosclerosis primarily affects hearing and may lead to:


  • Gradually worsening hearing loss


  • Difficulty hearing low-pitched sounds or whispers


  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)


  • Balance issues, vertigo, or dizziness
     

Because symptoms often progress slowly, early diagnosis is important to preserve hearing.

What Causes Otosclerosis

The exact cause of otosclerosis is not fully understood, but research suggests a genetic link passed from parent to child. Middle-aged Caucasian women are most commonly affected, and hormonal changes—including pregnancy and menopause—may play a role in disease progression.


The abnormal bone growth usually develops around the stapes bone in the middle ear. When the stapes becomes fixed and cannot move freely, sound vibrations are unable to travel properly to the inner ear, resulting in hearing loss.

Symptoms of Otosclerosis

The primary symptom of otosclerosis is gradual hearing loss, which may initially present as difficulty hearing soft or low-pitched sounds. Additional symptoms may include:


  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)


  • Vertigo or dizziness


  • Progressive difficulty understanding speech
     

Because these symptoms can overlap with other ear conditions, proper evaluation is necessary.

Treatment Options for Otosclerosis

Because the symptoms of otosclerosis resemble those of other ear disorders, a thorough examination by an otolaryngologist is essential.


Diagnostic testing typically includes a hearing evaluation, which often reveals conductive hearing loss across multiple frequencies, a hallmark of otosclerosis.


Treatment options may include:


  • Hearing aids to help manage hearing loss



  • Oral sodium fluoride, which may slow disease progression in some patients



In more advanced cases, a surgical procedure called a stapedectomy may be recommended. During this surgery, part or all of the affected stapes bone is removed and replaced with a prosthetic device. This allows the bones of the middle ear to resume movement, enabling sound waves to reach the inner ear and improving or restoring hearing.


While all surgical procedures carry some risk, otosclerosis will continue to worsen if left untreated. Your doctor will discuss the most appropriate treatment options based on your condition and hearing needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is otosclerosis hereditary?

    Otosclerosis often runs in families, suggesting a genetic component, though not everyone with a family history will develop the condition.

  • Can otosclerosis be cured?

    There is no cure, but treatments such as hearing aids or surgery can significantly improve hearing and quality of life.

  • When should I see a specialist for hearing loss?

    If you notice gradual or unexplained hearing loss, tinnitus, or dizziness, you should schedule an evaluation with an ENT specialist.

Call Allergy & ENT Associates at (615) 889-8802 to learn more or schedule an appointment.