Otosclerosis is a condition where abnormal bone growth occurs in the middle ear, particularly around the stapes bone — one of the three tiny bones responsible for transmitting sound from the outer ear to the inner ear.

Normally, the stapes bone moves freely to conduct sound. In otosclerosis, it becomes fixed or "stuck", preventing sound from being efficiently transferred — leading to conductive hearing loss.

What Is Otosclerosis?

The condition often develops gradually and can be easy to miss early on.

Common symptoms include:

  • Gradual hearing loss, usually in one ear at first

  • Difficulty hearing low-pitched sounds or whispers

  • Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears)

  • Hearing your own voice more loudly (autophony)

  • In rare cases, balance issues or vertigo

Otosclerosis typically begins in the 20s to 40s and is more common in women, especially during or after pregnancy due to hormonal influences.

Symptoms of Otosclerosis

The exact cause isn't fully known, but several factors may contribute:

  • Genetics: It often runs in families

  • Hormones: Symptoms can worsen during pregnancy

  • Viruses: Some research suggests a link to measles infection

  • Autoimmune factors: Your immune system may play a role

What Causes Otosclerosis?

Diagnosing Otosclerosis

Please note that otosclerosis is a medical condition that should be diagnosed by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor.

At Earsonic, our audiologists will perform the necessary examinations to assist the ENT in making a diagnosis. We will also inform you if there is a possibility that you may have otosclerosis, but please be aware that we cannot confirm the presence of this condition.

  • Audiometry (hearing test): Measures how well you hear different sounds (Abnormal with Otosclerosis)

  • Tympanometry: Tests how your eardrum and middle ear respond to sound (Normal with Otosclerosis)

  • Acoustic Reflex: Evaluates the movement of the stapes bone, (typically reduced or absent in cases of otosclerosis).

The hallmark sign? Conductive hearing loss with a normal-appearing eardrum, and a specific "notch" on the audiogram called Carhart’s notch.

There’s no medication to reverse otosclerosis, but there are effective ways to manage it:

1. Hearing Aids

For many patients, hearing aids offer excellent results. They amplify sound and bypass the stiffened stapes, restoring clarity and reducing effort.

2. Surgery (Stapedectomy or Stapedotomy)

A surgical procedure can replace the immobile stapes bone with a prosthetic to restore sound conduction.

  • Can be done under local or general anesthesia, High success rates, Fast recovery time.

At Earsonic, we work closely with trusted ENT surgeons if surgery is the right path for you.

3. Monitoring

If symptoms are mild, regular monitoring may be recommended until intervention is needed.

Treatment Options

Living With Otosclerosis

Otosclerosis can be emotionally frustrating, especially for younger adults adjusting to hearing loss. But with today’s technology and treatment options, most patients manage it very successfully.

With the right support, hearing care, and guidance, you can maintain your lifestyle, relationships, and confidence — without missing a beat.