What is otosclerosis?
Otosclerosis is the abnormal growth of bone in the middle ear, often resulting in hearing loss.
What symptoms does otosclerosis cause?
The main symptoms of otosclerosis are:
Hearing loss or hearing loss: it is mild at first and progresses slowly, but worsens over time.
Tinnitus or ringing in the ears.
Vertigo and dizziness.
Causes of otosclerosis
Symptoms of otosclerosis are caused by abnormal growth of a spongy bone in the middle ear. This prevents the bones of the ear from vibrating to sound waves and thus makes hearing impossible.
The cause of otosclerosis itself is unknown, although there are certain coincidences of hereditary component. Therefore, the risk factors for this disease are family history.
Can otosclerosis be prevented?
It is not possible to prevent otosclerosis, so early detection is essential to treat it when necessary to avoid hearing loss.
Treatment of otosclerosis
Otosclerosis progresses very slowly, so it may not need to be treated surgically when detected. However, it is very important to follow up with an otolaryngologist to monitor bone growth and prevent hearing loss.
Untreated otosclerosis will worsen and affect hearing. To treat the problem, a stapedectomy or stapedotomy, surgeries in which the bones of the middle ear (stapes) are totally or partially replaced by prostheses, is performed.