Otosclerosis is a condition where abnormal, sponge-like bone growth occurs inside the ear and prohibits normal hearing. Hearing loss usually worsens slowly over time, and a hearing test can determine the severity of hearing loss.
Symptoms can include loss of hearing, a ringing sensation in the ears, and balance issues.
Treatments for otosclerosis may include the use of a hearing aid to treat hearing loss, but will not stop the hearing loss from worsening over time. Surgery may be used to remove part of the ear and replace it with a prosthesis. Without treatment, otosclerosis and associated hearing loss will continue to worsen and may result in total hearing loss.