Otosclerosis is a progressive bone disease that affects the middle ear. It occurs when the bones in the middle ear become abnormally stiff or fused together. This stiffness interferes with sound transmission, leading to hearing loss.

What are the symptoms of otosclerosis?

The primary symptom of otosclerosis is progressive hearing loss. This means that your hearing gradually worsens over time. Other symptoms may include:

• A ringing or buzzing sound in your ears (tinnitus)
• Dizziness
• Difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments

What causes otosclerosis?

The exact cause of otosclerosis is unknown, but it is thought to be genetic. It is more common in women and people of European descent.

How is otosclerosis diagnosed?

A hearing test is the primary tool used to diagnose otosclerosis. Your doctor may also perform a physical examination of your ears and a CT scan or MRI of your middle ear.

What are the treatment options for otosclerosis?

There are two main treatment options for otosclerosis:

• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be recommended to restore hearing. The most common surgical procedure for otosclerosis is stapes surgery. During this procedure, the damaged stapes bone is replaced with a prosthetic bone.
• Hearing aids: Hearing aids can help amplify sound and improve your hearing.

Can otosclerosis be prevented?

There is no known way to prevent otosclerosis. However, early diagnosis and treatment can help to minimize the impact of the disease.

If you have any concerns about your hearing, it is important to see a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to improve your quality of life.

Keywords: otosclerosis, hearing loss, middle ear, stapes surgery, tinnitus, dizziness, hearing aids