Otosclerosis: Managing Tinnitus and Treatment Timing

Otosclerosis...tinnitus

Dr.
Hou: Hello! Thank you for taking the time to clarify my concerns amidst your busy schedule.
Recently, I visited a doctor due to hearing issues in my left ear, and the diagnosis was otosclerosis.
To be cautious, I sought a second opinion at another hospital, where the doctor found no disease.
However, last Thursday, I experienced a pulsating sound in my left ear, which seems to be one of the symptoms of otosclerosis.
Currently, I work in education and it is inconvenient for me to take a long leave for surgery.
I would like to ask if, given my situation, it would be acceptable to wait until the summer break to undergo surgical treatment, and whether this would be harmful to my condition.
Thank you.

Xiao Ping, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/03/01

Dr. Hou Jiawei reply Rare Disease

Otosclerosis is an autosomal dominant hereditary hearing disorder characterized by progressive hearing loss that typically begins in young adulthood, affecting both ears in most cases.
Symptoms include: 1.
Progressive hearing loss: Early hearing loss primarily occurs in the low frequencies, with preserved speech recognition ability.
Initially, it is mainly conductive, but over the years, sensorineural damage may develop.
Hearing impairment often begins during adolescence.
2.
Tinnitus: Approximately 70% of patients experience unilateral or bilateral tinnitus.
In the mid-stage, damage to the inner ear can lead to more severe symptoms such as roaring or hissing sounds.
3.
Dizziness: This is rare.
Treatment options include: 1.
Medical treatment: Oral sodium fluoride, although this medication is currently unavailable in Taiwan.
2.
Surgical treatment: Most patients are candidates for surgery, which involves drilling a small hole in the stapes footplate and inserting a piston to replace the function of the hardened ossicle.
3.
Hearing aids: For patients who cannot or do not wish to undergo surgery, hearing aids can be used.
Surgical complications are rare and mostly temporary, including auditory hypersensitivity, tinnitus, dizziness, sensorineural hearing loss, complete hearing loss, and facial nerve paralysis.
Preventing and halting the pathological changes of otosclerosis is crucial for prognosis.
With early diagnosis and treatment with sodium fluoride, prognosis has improved.
As for whether to wait until summer vacation for surgical treatment, it is advisable to consult your otolaryngologist for an evaluation before making a decision.

Reply Date: 2005/03/01

More Info

Otosclerosis is a condition characterized by abnormal bone growth in the middle ear, which can lead to hearing loss and, in some cases, tinnitus (ringing in the ears). The management of otosclerosis typically involves a combination of surgical and non-surgical approaches, depending on the severity of the condition and the patient's specific circumstances.

Treatment Options for Otosclerosis
1. Surgical Intervention: The most common surgical treatment for otosclerosis is a procedure called stapedectomy. This involves removing the stapes bone (the stirrup-shaped bone in the middle ear) and replacing it with a prosthetic device. This surgery can significantly improve hearing in many patients. However, it is essential to consider the timing of the surgery, especially for individuals who may have work or personal commitments, such as teaching.

2. Hearing Aids: For patients who are not candidates for surgery or prefer not to undergo the procedure, hearing aids can be an effective alternative. They amplify sound and can help manage hearing loss associated with otosclerosis.

3. Medications: While there is no specific medication to cure otosclerosis, some studies suggest that sodium fluoride may help stabilize the condition and improve bone density in the inner ear. However, this treatment is not universally available, and its effectiveness can vary. Patients should consult with an otolaryngologist for personalized advice regarding medication.

Managing Tinnitus
Tinnitus is often a distressing symptom for those with otosclerosis. While it may not be directly treatable, several strategies can help manage the perception of tinnitus:
- Sound Therapy: Using background noise or white noise machines can help mask the sound of tinnitus.

- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This psychological approach can help patients cope with the distress caused by tinnitus.

- Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT): This combines sound therapy with counseling to help patients habituate to the tinnitus sound.

Timing of Surgery
Regarding your specific situation, where you are considering delaying surgery until the summer break, it is crucial to weigh the potential risks and benefits. While waiting for surgery may not necessarily worsen your condition, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If your tinnitus becomes more bothersome or if your hearing loss worsens, it may be advisable to seek earlier intervention.

In general, otosclerosis is a progressive condition, and delaying treatment could lead to further hearing loss. However, if your current level of hearing loss is manageable and you can cope with the tinnitus, waiting until a more convenient time for surgery may be appropriate. It is always best to discuss your concerns and options with your healthcare provider, who can provide guidance based on your specific medical history and condition.

Conclusion
In summary, otosclerosis can be effectively managed through surgical and non-surgical means. If you are experiencing tinnitus, it is essential to address it with your healthcare provider, as they can recommend appropriate management strategies. While it is possible to wait for surgery until a more convenient time, it is crucial to remain vigilant about your symptoms and consult with your physician to ensure that any changes in your condition are appropriately addressed.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Ear Stroke: Treatment Options for Tinnitus Relief

I have been experiencing tinnitus for over a month. Initially, I visited a general clinic and took medication, but when there was no improvement, I tried acupuncture. Eventually, I went to a major hospital for further examination, including a hearing test. The doctor diagnosed me...

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology
Sudden sensorineural hearing loss includes hearing loss and tinnitus. Hearing loss may take over a month to recover, and steroid injections are aimed at treating the hearing loss. However, tinnitus can still be treated with medication within three months, as it typically reaches ...

Understanding Persistent Tinnitus and Hearing Loss: Seeking Expert Advice

Hello Doctor, I suddenly noticed a decline in my hearing at the beginning of this year. I often have to ask others to repeat themselves or speak louder. In mid-July, I experienced sudden tinnitus in my left ear, a feeling of fullness, and further hearing impairment, making it see...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
In general, if there are issues with the ossicles that cause daily life disturbances, it is advisable to consider wearing hearing aids for assistance. As for surgical options, ossicular surgery carries risks, including potential damage to the inner ear, which may result in worse ...

Next Steps for Managing Tinnitus: Seeking Relief from Ear Noise

Dear Doctor, I have been working in a textile factory for nearly 20 years in a supervisory role, but I still need to stay for several hours each day. I usually wear earplugs, and I have recently been transferred to an office. At the end of April this year, after inspecting the s...

Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, hearing loss caused by noise or underlying blood flow issues is not uncommon. What is concerning is that it may be accompanied by persistent tinnitus and vertigo. The general approach should still be based on sudden sensorineural hearing loss,...

Understanding Tinnitus: Causes, Concerns, and Treatment Options

Hello Doctor, On a certain day in February, I suddenly experienced severe pain in my left ear. The next day, I visited a doctor who diagnosed me with temporomandibular joint inflammation. After taking medication, the pain subsided, but since that day, I have had continuous tinn...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: There are many factors that can cause tinnitus. If hearing tests and neurological functions show no significant abnormalities, it is often associated with stress symptoms such as anxiety and insomnia. It is advisable to start by improving sleep and reducing anxiety, or usi...