What is obliterative otosclerosis?

Obliterative otosclerosis involves total obscuration of the oval window and its margins (Fig. 11–1). It is thought to be evidence of very advanced otoscle- rosis. Young patients are especially at risk, particularly when active, aggres- sive otosclerosis develops around puberty.

What are the stages of otosclerosis?

There appear to be three stages of otosclerosis -resorptive osteoclastic stages with signs of inflammation, followed by an osteoblastic stage involving immature bone, followed by mature bone formation.

What is the main cause of otosclerosis?

The exact cause of otosclerosis is unknown. It may be passed down through families. People who have otosclerosis have an abnormal extension of sponge-like bone growing in the middle ear cavity. This growth prevents the ear bones from vibrating in response to sound waves.

What happens if otosclerosis is left untreated?

Otosclerosis can cause mild to severe hearing loss, but it very rarely causes total deafness. Your hearing usually gets worse gradually over months or a few years, and may continue to get worse if ignored and left untreated. But the hearing loss can normally be treated successfully with either hearing aids or surgery.

How quickly does otosclerosis progress?

The hearing loss from otosclerosis is usually progressive over many years. Both ears are often affected, although one ear is usually worse than the other. The hearing loss may progress during pregnancy and (possibly) with certain types of hormonal treatment.

Does otosclerosis affect balance?

Otosclerosis is a rare ear disorder that can lead to hearing loss. Caused by abnormal bone growth in the space behind the eardrum, the symptoms of otosclerosis can also include feelings of dizziness and balance problems.

Can otosclerosis be cured?

Otosclerosis can’t be cured. Surgery can greatly improve the hearing loss caused by otosclerosis. Hearing aids can successfully manage your hearing loss as well.

Can otosclerosis be fixed?

How is otosclerosis treated? Currently, there is no effective drug treatment for otosclerosis, although there is hope that continued bone-remodeling research could identify potential new therapies. Mild otosclerosis can be treated with a hearing aid that amplifies sound, but surgery is often required.

Is otosclerosis curable?

How do you slow down otosclerosis?

Treatment for otosclerosis

  1. medication – some studies have suggested that taking fluoride, calcium and vitamin D supplements may help to slow the progression of otosclerosis.
  2. hearing aid – hearing aids can help most people with a hearing loss, even though they cannot restore normal hearing.

Can otosclerosis cause dizziness?

Can otosclerosis cause headaches?

Can otosclerosis cause headaches? Headaches are a secondary symptom of otosclerosis. If you start having headaches and these are already accompanied by mild or major bouts of hearing loss, contact your GP immediately.