Otosclerosis Ear

Otosclerosis (Otospongiosis)

What is otosclerosis?

Otosclerosis occurs when the pathological sprouting bone in the inner ear. This hinders the proper functioning of the other components of the auditory system. This disease is a common cause of hearing loss and may even lead to deafness.

Reasons for otosclerosis

The causes of otosclerosis is unknown. Nonetheless, otosclerosis usually, It can occur in several family members, i.e, apparently, can be inherited.

Risk factors for otosclerosis

Otosclerosis is more common in women and people from adolescence to 50 years. Factors, that increase the risk include otosclerosis:

• A family history of the disease otosclerosis;
• Consumption of non-fluorinated water: some studies show, that the consumption of highly purified, non-fluorinated water may lead to some people otosclerosis;
• Hormonal factors, such, pregnancy;
• Viral infections, including measles.

Symptoms of otosclerosis

Gradual hearing loss is the main symptom of otosclerosis. Hearing loss may be of two types:

• Conductive hearing loss – it is the cause of the anomaly of small bones of the inner ear;
• Sensorineural hearing loss – the cause is damage to the cochlea, which is the main sensory organ in the inner ear;

In the early stages of the disease can be seen deterioration in hearing sounds or low whisper. Other symptoms may include otosclerosis:

• Feeling dizzy;
• Problems with balance;
• Feeling tones, roaring or buzzing in the ear.

Diagnosis of otosclerosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical examination. It will check your hearing.

Physicians may need photographs the structure of the ear and surrounding tissues. For their implementation apply:

• CT scan (CT);
• MRT.

Treatment of otosclerosis

Treatments include otosclerosis:

Hearing aids in otosclerosis

Hearing aids may be effective for conductive as in, and in sensorineural hearing loss.

Otosclerosis – operation

In many cases, the procedure, It called stapedektomiya, may improve hearing. The purpose of this operation is to replace the problematic bone artificial device, which can transmit sound waves to the inner ear. Stapedektomiya is quite effective, and often hearing back almost to normal levels.

Medication against otosclerosis

Drugs are sometimes prescribed fluoride to stabilize the condition and prevent further sensorineural hearing loss. Nonetheless, This method of treatment of otosclerosis is still controversial and unproven.

Prevention otosclerosis

Prevention methods include otosclerosis:

• The consumption of fluoridated water;
• Vaccination against measles.