Symptoms of otosclerosis include:

• gradual hearing loss in 1 or both ears, often over several years
• hearing ringing, buzzing or other noises in 1 or both ears (tinnitus)
• dizziness
• problems with your balance

Otosclerosis is a common cause of hearing loss in younger adults. Symptoms usually start between the ages of 30 to 50.

If you have symptoms of otosclerosis, you should see a GP so they can find out what is causing them.

See a GP if:

If you have symptoms of otosclerosis, your GP will usually check inside your ears and may refer you to:

• an audiologist, for hearing tests
• an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist, who will look inside your ears and may arrange a CT scan

The 2 main treatment options for otosclerosis are hearing aids or surgery.

Hearing aids work by making the sounds around you louder. They can help you hear more easily, but they will not stop your hearing from getting worse.

You may also be offered surgery to remove 1 of the small bones (the stapes) in your affected ear or ears. If your stapes is removed, it will be replaced by a plastic or metal implant.

Surgery is usually very successful at improving hearing, but there are some risks that your surgeon will discuss with you.

You will usually be referred to an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT) who will help you decide which treatment may be best for you.

Otosclerosis happens when a tiny bone inside your ear, called the stapes, joins (fuses) with other parts of the ear and stops you being able to hear properly.

It's not known why otosclerosis happens, but it may be passed on in families. You are more likely to get otosclerosis if a close relative has it.

Find out more

• Otosclerosis (Royal National Institute for Deaf People)
• Information and support (Royal National Institute for Deaf People)