The German Association of Otolaryngologists said that otosclerosis is a medical condition in which the ability to hear gradually deteriorates, especially at low frequencies.
The association explained that otosclerosis occurs as a result of changes in bone metabolism in the bone, especially in the area of the inner ear and the stapes in the middle ear.
This leads to excessive ossification, which prevents the auditory ossicles from vibrating normally, which is necessary for the ear to be able to transmit sound waves and for proper hearing.
Possible causes include viral infections (eg measles), autoimmune diseases, hormonal influences (eg during pregnancy), as well as genetic factors.
Deterioration of the sense of hearing
Symptoms of otosclerosis include deteriorating hearing, dizziness, tinnitus, and pain. Patients also often speak in a low voice, because they often hear their voices unusually loud when they speak.
A doctor should be consulted as soon as these symptoms are noticed for timely treatment, which includes hearing aids, surgery (stapedoplasty) and cochlear implantation.