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Otosclerosis:

Understanding a Common Cause of Conductive Hearing Loss in Austin

Otosclerosis is a condition that affects how sound travels through the middle ear and is one of the more common causes of hearing loss evaluated at Austin Ear, Sinus and Allergy. It occurs when one of the tiny bones—most often the stapes—becomes stiff and unable to move the way it should. Because that bone helps send sound vibrations into the inner ear, any loss of movement can reduce the clarity or volume of what you hear.

At Austin Ear, Sinus and Allergy, we evaluate hearing changes to determine whether otosclerosis may be part of the picture and discuss treatment choices based on your symptoms, exam findings, and hearing test results.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Common Signs of Otosclerosis

Otosclerosis may cause:

  • Gradual hearing loss, often starting in one ear
  • Difficulty hearing low-pitched sounds
  • Trouble following conversations in noisy settings
  • A feeling that sound is muffled
  • Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing)
  • Occasional dizziness or balance changes

These symptoms can also occur with other ear conditions, so testing is needed before reaching a diagnosis.

Who Is More Likely to Develop Otosclerosis?

Researchers are still studying why otosclerosis occurs, but several patterns have been observed:

  • It often runs in families
  • It is more common in early to mid-adulthood
  • Hormonal changes may play a role for some individuals
  • Previous illnesses that affect the ear may contribute in certain cases

Not everyone with these factors develops otosclerosis, but they can help guide your evaluation.

How Otosclerosis Is Diagnosed

A combination of an ear exam and hearing tests is typically used to determine whether the stapes bone may be affected. Testing can measure how well sound travels through the middle ear and whether the pattern fits with otosclerosis or another source of hearing changes.

If needed, additional imaging may help provide more detailed information.

Noticing Gradual Hearing Loss?

Treatment Options for Otosclerosis

Treatment varies depending on your symptoms, the degree of hearing loss, and your personal preferences. Options may include:

Hearing Devices

Hearing aids can often improve sound clarity when the stapes is not moving normally. They do not address the underlying bone changes but may help you hear more comfortably.

Observation

If your hearing changes are mild and not interfering with daily life, monitoring with periodic exams and hearing tests may be appropriate.

Surgery (Stapedectomy or Stapedotomy)

Some individuals choose surgery to replace or modify the stapes bone. This may improve sound transmission, but results vary, and not everyone is a candidate. A thorough discussion with your ENT is needed to review risks, benefits, and recovery expectations.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

When to Seek Help for Hearing Changes

While otosclerosis is usually gradual, certain hearing symptoms require prompt evaluation:

  • Sudden hearing loss
  • Hearing loss in one ear only
  • Severe dizziness
  • Pain, drainage, or signs of infection
  • A sudden increase in tinnitus

These symptoms may be related to other medical issues that need timely care.
If you’re unsure what is causing your hearing changes, a hearing test and exam can provide clarity and help guide next steps.

Living With Otosclerosis

Many people with otosclerosis continue to work, socialize, and enjoy daily activities with the help of hearing devices, medical guidance, or surgery when appropriate. Early evaluation allows you to better understand your options and plan for long-term hearing health.

Support for Your Hearing Journey in Austin

Hearing changes can be frustrating, but you don’t have to sort through them alone. If you’re noticing muffled sound, tinnitus, or gradual decline in hearing, we can help identify what’s going on and walk you through choices that fit your needs. At Austin Ear, Sinus and Allergy, our team is here to listen, evaluate, and support you every step of the way.

Don’t let gradual hearing loss go unchecked. Schedule a hearing evaluation at Austin Ear, Sinus and Allergy to find out if otosclerosis—or another cause—may be behind your symptoms.

Schedule An Evaluation Today

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Individual results may vary.
The effectiveness of treatments can differ based on individual circumstances.

Austin Ear, Sinus & Allergy

ADDRESS

12319 N. Mopac Expy
Building C, Suite 300
Austin, TX 78758

PHONE

(512) 454-0341

FAX

(512) 454-9915

HOURS OF OPERATION

Monday – Friday: 8am - 5pm
Saturday – Sunday: Closed

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  • (512) 454-0341
  • Patient Portal
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  • Sinus
    • Sinus Treatment Services
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    • Balloon Sinuplasty
    • Sinus Quiz
  • Allergy
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    • Allergy Testing
    • Allergy Drops
    • Allergy Quiz
  • General ENT
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    • Septoplasty
    • Deviated Septum
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    • Nasal Congestion
  • Ear & Hearing Loss
    • Ear & Hearing Loss Services
    • Ear Infections
    • Tinnitus
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Austin Ear, Sinus & Allergy