Otosclerosis
Otosclerosis is an abnormal condition wherein an abnormal growth of bone in the middle ear causes hearing loss. The cause of the disorder is not known so far, however it is attributed to hereditary reasons. An abnormal growth of bone in the middle ear is characterized by sponge-like shape, which stops the vibration of the ear when exposed to sound, thus worsening the hearing with time. About 10-15% of US population is affected by this disorder, where this hearing loss is most common in young adults. It begins in early to mid adulthood. Women seem to be more affected by this disease than men. Otosclerosis generally affects both ears and may lead not only to conductive hearing loss, but also nerve loss. Risk factors include women who are pregnant and a family history in hearing loss.
Symptoms of otosclerosis include hearing loss that gets worse with time, hearing becomes better in noisy environments compared to silent ones and tinnitus (ringing in ears). A hearing test or audiology may determine the extent of hearing loss. Temporal-bone CT can be used to differentiate between otosclerosis and other causes of hearing loss.
The condition may not call for treatment until there are severe hearing problems. Medications like oral fluoride, vitamin D, or calcium may help in preventing or controlling the loss in hearing, however results vary from person to person. A hearing aid can assist in reducing the hearing loss. Surgery to remove a part of the ear (stapes) and replace it with prosthesis may cure the condition. A complete replacement is called stapedectomy. Prosthetic device is sometimes placed in a hole in the stapes using laser and this method of treatment is called as stapedotomy.
Surgery can help restore at least some hearing. Any complications caused due to the surgery get better within a few weeks. Complications can be minimized by not blowing the nose for about a week after surgery, avoiding company of people with respiratory infections, and avoiding tasks which involve bending, lifting or straining, which may result into dizziness. One must also avoid loud noise and sudden pressure changes from the activities like flying, scuba diving, or driving in mountains.
Unsuccessful surgery may lead to total loss of hearing. Treatment would then involve developing skills to deal with deafness, including the use of visual cues and hearing aids. Other possible complications may result into infection, pain, dizziness, or blood clotting in the ear. Medical intervention may be required after the surgery in case of fever, pain, dizziness, or other symptoms that develop.
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