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The name of “otosclerosis" comes from the phrases “oto” (“of the ear”) and “sclerosis” (“abnormal hardening of body tissue”). It's an ear disease that affects the bones in the middle ear, which leads to gradual hearing loss. Early diagnosis and treatment can help preserve hearing and management of this condition.
Read on to explore the definition, symptoms, causes and treatments for this condition that affects 3 million Americans. [1]
Otosclerosis is a condition where abnormal bone growth occurs in the middle ear, fixating or freezing the connections between the three tiny middle ear bones, preventing them from moving properly, which disrupts the transmission of sound and causes conductive hearing loss. [2]
Hearing healthcare providers may use a combination of tools to confirm an otosclerosis diagnosis, including:
Otosclerosis typically develops gradually, often starting in early to mid-adulthood. It may affect one or both ears.
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The exact otosclerosis causes are not fully understood, but research points to several possible factors:
Otosclerosis symptoms generally develop slowly and may include:
Otosclerosis symptoms typically worsen over time. Many patients first notice difficulty hearing whispers or soft-spoken voices. As the condition progresses, hearing aids or surgical intervention may be necessary. For most cases, if caught early, surgery can help completely reverse otosclerosis.
The right otosclerosis treatment depends on the severity of hearing loss, overall health, and patient preferences. Common approaches include:
It’s important to note that, when caught early, most otosclerosis is completely reversible with surgery. Early diagnosis is critical, so if you’re noticing hearing loss, schedule an appointment with a hearing health care provider sooner rather than later.
Hearing healthcare experts often classify otosclerosis into two different types:
For accurate diagnosis, hearing healthcare experts rely on:
The diagnosis is documented using medical coding systems, such as the otosclerosis ICD codes, for insurance and treatment planning.
If you notice gradual hearing loss, especially if it runs in your family, schedule an evaluation with a hearing healthcare professional. Early detection can make a significant difference in treatment options and long-term hearing preservation.
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For those seeking diagnosis and treatment, it’s important to work with experienced professionals. The experts at Amplifon Hearing Healthcare can guide you through getting the proper care that you need.
Request an appointment at a hearing care provider near you.
Sources
1. Cleveland Clinic. “Otosclerosis.” Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22033-otosclerosis
2. Cleveland Clinic. “Otosclerosis.” Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22033-otosclerosis
3. American Hearing Research Foundation. “Otosclerosis.” Retrieved from https://www.american-hearing.org/disease/otosclerosis/
4. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. “Otosclerosis.” Retrieved from https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/otosclerosis
5. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. “Otosclerosis.” Retrieved from https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/otosclerosis
6. Cleveland Clinic. “Otosclerosis.” Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22033-otosclerosis
