Understanding otosclerosis: causes, symptoms & treatment

Otosclerosis is a condition that affects the tiny bones in the middle ear, leading to gradual hearing loss. It happens when abnormal bone growth develops around the stapes - one of the three small bones that help transmit sound from the outer ear to the inner ear. As the bone becomes fixed in place, sound vibrations can no longer move freely, making it harder to hear.

Although otosclerosis cannot be prevented, it can be effectively managed with the right treatment and professional hearing care. At Leightons, our audiologists can help detect the signs of otosclerosis, monitor your hearing, and guide you to the right medical support if needed.

What is otosclerosis?

In a healthy ear, the stapes vibrates with sound waves, passing these vibrations to the cochlea, where they’re converted into signals for the brain.

When otosclerosis develops, abnormal bone growth around the ossicles causes it to stiffen and lose mobility. This limits sound transmission and gradually reduces hearing sensitivity. The condition usually begins in one ear but can affect both over time.

Otosclerosis is more common in adults between the ages of 20 and 45 and slightly more prevalent in women

What causes otosclerosis?

The exact cause of otosclerosis isn’t fully understood, but several factors can increase the risk:

  • Genetics - The condition often runs in families.
  • Viral infections - Such as measles, which can affect bone development in the ear.
  • Hormonal changes - Pregnancy or hormonal fluctuations may accelerate progression.
  • Autoimmune conditions - The body’s immune system may contribute to inner ear inflammation.

Otosclerosis is not caused by lifestyle factors or noise exposure, but understanding the risk factors can help with early detection and treatment.

Common symptoms of otosclerosis

Otosclerosis usually develops slowly, so symptoms may go unnoticed at first. Common signs include:

  • Gradual hearing loss, often starting in one ear
  • Difficulty hearing low-pitched sounds or whispers
  • Tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, or roaring sounds in the ear)
  • Better hearing in noisy environments
  • Occasional balance problems or dizziness

Because symptoms develop gradually, regular hearing tests are essential for early detection.

How is otosclerosis diagnosed?

If you’re noticing hearing changes, an audiologist can perform a free hearing assessment to measure how well sound travels through your ears. If conductive hearing loss is detected, you may be referred to an ENT specialist for further testing, which might include:

  • Audiogram - to measure hearing thresholds.
  • Tympanometry - to check middle ear function.
  • CT scan - in some cases, to view the bone structure of the middle ear.

A confirmed diagnosis allows for tailored treatment options and ongoing hearing management.

Treatment and management of otosclerosis

There are several effective treatments for otosclerosis, depending on its severity and how much it affects your hearing:

  • Hearing aids: Amplify sound to overcome the conductive hearing loss. Many people find these extremely effective.
  • Stapedectomy or stapedotomy surgery: A delicate operation performed by an ENT specialist to replace or modify the stapes bone, to restore a better sound transmission which can help with hearing loss.
  • Regular hearing checks: To monitor changes and adjust hearing aids if necessary.
  • Protecting your hearing: Avoiding loud noise exposure and maintaining general ear health.

With appropriate care, most people with otosclerosis maintain excellent hearing function.

Living with otosclerosis

Otosclerosis can impact daily life, but early diagnosis and the right treatment make a significant difference. Many people successfully manage their hearing with hearing aids or surgical treatment. Emotional support and hearing care guidance can also help reduce the frustration or isolation sometimes linked to hearing loss.

If you’ve noticed gradual hearing changes, don’t ignore them. A professional assessment can help identify whether otosclerosis - or another treatable condition - is the cause.

How Leightons can help

At Leightons, our friendly audiologists provide comprehensive free hearing tests and ear health checks to identify signs of otosclerosis or other hearing conditions. We can:

  • Test your hearing to determine if otosclerosis may be affecting you.
  • Fit and fine-tune hearing aids to support clear, comfortable hearing.
  • Refer you to an ENT specialist for diagnosis or surgical consultation if needed.
  • Offer ongoing support and aftercare to help you manage your hearing long-term.

We’re here to help you understand your hearing, regain confidence, and enjoy life with clear sound once again.

Book your free hearing assessment today and take the first step toward better hearing health.

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Understanding mastoiditis: causes, symptoms & treatment
Understanding mastoiditis: causes, symptoms & treatment
Mastoiditis is a rare but serious ear infection that affects the mastoid bone, which sits just behind the ear. It usually develops when a middle ear infection (otitis media) spreads to the mastoid bone, causing inflammation and fluid build-up. Although it sounds alarming, mastoiditis can be successfully treated with prompt medical care. At Leightons, we understand that ear pain and swelling can be worrying. Our audiologists are here to check your ear health, explain what’s happening, and help guide you to the right care if an infection is suspected. What is mastoiditis? The mastoid bone is part of your skull and contains small air-filled spaces that help drain the middle ear. When bacteria from an untreated or severe ear infection spread to this bone, it can become inflamed and filled with infected fluid. This condition is known as mastoiditis. If not treated quickly, the infection can cause pain, swelling, and in some cases, damage to nearby structures - which is why early diagnosis and medical treatment are essential. What causes mastoiditis? Mastoiditis most often develops as a complication of a middle ear infection that hasn’t fully cleared. When bacteria remain trapped in the middle ear, they can spread into the mastoid bone, causing inflammation and infection. Common causes and contributing factors include: Untreated or chronic ear infections Bacterial infection spreading from the middle ear Recurrent infections weakening ear tissues Poor ear drainage due to Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Mastoiditis can occur at any age but is more common in children, as their ear structures are still developing. Common symptoms of mastoiditis Mastoiditis symptoms can appear suddenly and may follow an ear infection that hasn’t fully resolved. Common signs include: Severe, persistent ear pain Swelling or redness behind the ear Ear discharge (sometimes thick or pus-like) Fever and feeling unwell Hearing loss in the affected ear Headache or dizziness In some cases, the ear may appear pushed forward due to swelling behind it. Because mastoiditis can worsen quickly, it’s important to seek medical attention if you notice these symptoms. How is mastoiditis diagnosed? A GP or ENT specialist can diagnose mastoiditis by examining the ear and checking for inflammation, swelling, or discharge. Tests may include: Otoscopy: Looking inside the ear to assess infection Hearing test (audiogram): Checking if hearing has been affected CT scan: To confirm if the infection has spread to the mastoid bone Blood tests: To detect signs of infection Early diagnosis allows for quicker treatment and prevents complications. Treatment for mastoiditis Treatment aims to remove the infection, relieve symptoms, and prevent further spread. Depending on the severity, this may involve: Antibiotics: Usually given intravenously (via a drip) to control the infection Ear drainage: A small procedure to remove infected fluid or pus Surgery (mastoidectomy): In more serious cases, part of the infected bone may be removed to stop the infection from spreading With prompt treatment, most people recover fully and experience no long-term hearing damage. Preventing mastoiditis The best way to prevent mastoiditis is by treating ear infections early and avoiding irritation to the ear canal. Simple steps include: Seek medical advice for any ear infection that lasts more than a few days Avoid inserting objects like cotton buds into your ears Keep ears dry and clean, especially after swimming Attend regular ear health checks to monitor your ear condition if you’re prone to infections By managing ear health proactively, you can reduce the risk of complications like mastoiditis. How Leightons can help At Leightons, we provide ear health checks and free hearing assessments to help identify infections early and support your recovery after treatment. Our audiologists can: Examine your ears safely for signs of infection or inflammation Carry out hearing tests to check for any hearing changes Refer you to an ENT specialist for medical treatment if necessary Offer aftercare and follow-up checks to monitor your ear health after recovery We’re here to help you understand your symptoms, protect your hearing, and feel confident in your ear health. Book your free hearing assessment today and take the first step toward clearer, healthier hearing.
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