Otosclerosis and Hearing Loss in Grand Rapids, MI

Otosclerosis is an ear condition that affects how sound is transmitted through the middle ear. It is characterized by abnormal bone growth around the tiny hearing bones (ossicles), especially the stapes, which stops them from vibrating normally.

When these bones can’t move, sound waves cannot reach the inner ear effectively, leading to hearing loss. In some cases, this abnormal bone growth can also extend into the inner ear and affect balance.

In Grand Rapids and across West Michigan, otosclerosis is commonly evaluated and treated by ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists and audiologists at major health systems such as Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, and Mercy Health.

How Otosclerosis Causes Hearing Loss

Sound Waves and the Normal Hearing Process

Sound is simply vibration traveling through the air. When you hear a sound (like a person speaking or traffic on I-196), this is what normally happens:

  1. Sound enters the ear canal and reaches the eardrum.
  2. The eardrum vibrates in response to these sound waves.
  3. These vibrations are passed to the three tiny bones in the middle ear:
    • Malleus (hammer)
    • Incus (anvil)
    • Stapes (stirrup)
  4. The stapes moves against the cochlea (the hearing organ in the inner ear).
  5. Inside the cochlea, thousands of hair cells convert these vibrations into electrical signals.
  6. These signals travel along the hearing nerve (cochlear nerve) to the brain, which interprets them as sound.

What Happens in Otosclerosis?

In otosclerosis, abnormal bone forms around the stapes bone. Over time, this bone can “fix” the stapes in place so it can’t move properly. As a result:

  • Sound vibrations are blocked from reaching the inner ear.
  • Conductive hearing loss develops (a problem with sound transmission through the outer or middle ear).
  • In some cases, the inner ear can also be affected, causing sensorineural hearing loss. This combination is called mixed hearing loss.

Otosclerosis usually starts in one ear but often progresses to involve both ears over time.

Balance, the Inner Ear, and Otosclerosis

The inner ear is not just for hearing—it also contains the vestibular system, which helps control balance. The main part of this system is the labyrinth, a series of fluid-filled channels and semicircular canals set at different angles.

  • When you move your head (nodding, turning, tilting), fluid moves within these canals.
  • This movement stimulates tiny hair cells, which send signals via the vestibular nerve to the brain.
  • These signals help your body stay upright and maintain balance.

If the abnormal bone growth of otosclerosis spreads into the inner ear:

  • It can interfere with the normal movement of fluid in the labyrinth.
  • This may cause dizziness, vertigo, and nausea.

Because Grand Rapids experiences icy winters and slippery sidewalks, balance problems can increase the risk of falls, especially in older adults. Early evaluation of dizziness is important to reduce fall risk during Michigan’s colder months.

Who Is Most Affected by Otosclerosis?

  • Otosclerosis most commonly affects women between 15 and 30 years of age.
  • It can also occur in men and in older adults.
  • Pregnancy may sometimes worsen symptoms in women who already have otosclerosis.

Residents in Grand Rapids and Kent County who notice gradual hearing loss or ringing in the ears (tinnitus) should consider seeing an ENT specialist or audiologist for evaluation, especially if there is a family history of hearing loss.

Symptoms of Otosclerosis

Common symptoms may include:

  • Gradual hearing loss, often starting in one ear
  • Difficulty hearing soft sounds or following conversations, especially in noisy places (restaurants, busy downtown Grand Rapids venues)
  • Tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, or roaring in the ears)
  • Dizziness or a sensation of imbalance, particularly if inner ear structures are involved
  • Needing to turn up the TV or radio louder than others prefer
  • Feeling like people are mumbling or not speaking clearly

If you notice these symptoms, especially if they worsen over time, it is important to seek evaluation from a hearing specialist in Grand Rapids.

Causes and Risk Factors of Otosclerosis

The exact cause of otosclerosis is still unclear, but several risk factors have been identified:

  • Family history:
    Otosclerosis often runs in families, suggesting a genetic or hereditary component.
  • Genetic bone disorders:
    People with osteogenesis imperfecta (a genetic condition with brittle bones) have an increased risk of developing otosclerosis.
  • Fluoride exposure:
    Some research suggests that drinking non-fluoridated water may increase the risk in susceptible people, though this is not fully proven.
    (Most municipal water supplies in Michigan, including Kent County, are regulated and monitored; you can check with the Kent County Health Department regarding local water quality and fluoridation.)
  • Viral infections:
    There is some evidence that viruses—especially the measles virus—may contribute to the development of otosclerosis.
  • Unknown factors:
    Some people develop otosclerosis even without any known risk factors.

How Otosclerosis Is Diagnosed in Grand Rapids

Otosclerosis is usually diagnosed by an ENT specialist (otolaryngologist) and an audiologist using several tests, which may include:

  • Hearing test (audiogram)
    • Shows the type and degree of hearing loss.
    • People with otosclerosis often have hearing loss that affects multiple frequencies (pitches).
    • The loss may be:
      • Conductive (problem in the outer or middle ear), or
      • Mixed (conductive plus inner ear damage).
  • Tympanometry
    • Measures how well the eardrum and middle ear system move.
  • Tuning fork tests
    • Simple bedside tests to distinguish between conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.
  • Imaging (CT scan) in some cases
    • To look at the bones and structures of the inner and middle ear, including the cochlea, cochlear nerve, and labyrinth.

In Grand Rapids, these tests are commonly available at major hospital systems such as Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, and Mercy Health, as well as independent ENT and audiology clinics.

Treatment Options for Otosclerosis

Treatment is based on the degree of hearing loss, symptoms, overall health, and personal preference. Sometimes, no immediate treatment is needed if hearing loss is mild. Regular monitoring with hearing tests may be recommended.

1. Hearing Aids

  • Hearing aids can help most people with otosclerosis-related hearing loss, even though they cannot restore normal hearing.
  • They work by amplifying sound, making it easier to:
    • Follow conversations at work, school, or social events in Grand Rapids
    • Hear family members, television, and phone calls
  • Modern digital hearing aids can be:
    • Very small and discreet
    • Programmed to match your specific hearing loss pattern

Hearing aids are often the first-line treatment and can be fitted by audiologists throughout the Grand Rapids area.

2. Surgery (Stapedectomy or Stapedotomy)

For many people with otosclerosis, surgery can significantly improve hearing.

  • The most common procedure is a stapedectomy or stapedotomy, in which:
    • The affected stapes bone is partially or completely removed.
    • It is replaced with a prosthesis (artificial stapes).
  • A successful operation can:
    • Correct or greatly improve the conductive hearing loss caused by otosclerosis.
    • Improve quality of life, communication, and independence.

After Ear Surgery: Care and Precautions

Postoperative care is very important to protect the ear and reduce the risk of complications. Always follow your surgeon’s specific instructions. General recommendations may include:

  • Protect the ear from infection:
    • Contact your doctor promptly if you experience ear pain, dizziness, drainage, or fever, as these may signal an infection.
  • Avoid pressure changes:
    • Your surgeon may advise you to avoid blowing your nose hard, heavy lifting, or flying for a period after surgery.
  • Limit loud noise exposure:
    • Avoid loud concerts, power tools, or other intense noise, especially during early healing.
  • Keep follow-up appointments:
    • Regular checkups with your ENT surgeon and hearing tests help monitor healing and hearing improvement.

These surgeries are commonly performed by otologists or neurotologists (ear specialists) at major hospitals and specialty centers in Grand Rapids and West Michigan.

3. Medications and Supplements

Some studies have suggested that certain supplements may slow the progression of otosclerosis:

  • Fluoride
  • Calcium
  • Vitamin D

However:

  • This approach needs more research before it can be widely recommended.
  • Not everyone is a candidate for these treatments.
  • Supplements can interact with other medications or medical conditions.

Always discuss supplements with your ENT specialist or primary care provider before starting them.

Living With Otosclerosis in Grand Rapids

With appropriate diagnosis and treatment, many people with otosclerosis continue to work, drive, enjoy outdoor activities along the Grand River, and participate fully in community life.

Some tips:

  • Schedule regular hearing checks, especially if you notice changes.
  • Protect your ears from loud noise (concerts, power tools, snowblowers), which can worsen hearing loss.
  • Use hearing protection during loud winter sports events or when using equipment like leaf blowers and lawnmowers.
  • Consider assistive listening devices (e.g., amplified phones, TV streamers) to make daily communication easier.
  • If dizziness is a problem, take extra care during icy Michigan winters to prevent falls—use handrails, wear appropriate footwear, and consider balance therapy if recommended.

Local resources such as the Kent County Health Department and Grand Rapids Public Health programs can also provide information on hearing health, vaccinations (including measles), and general wellness.

When to See a Doctor in Grand Rapids

Seek medical advice from an ENT specialist or your primary care provider if you:

  • Notice gradual or sudden hearing loss
  • Have ringing in the ears (tinnitus) that does not go away
  • Experience dizziness, vertigo, or balance problems
  • Have a family history of otosclerosis or early-onset hearing loss
  • Develop ear pain, fever, or drainage

Early evaluation and treatment can help preserve hearing, improve communication, and reduce the impact of otosclerosis on your daily life in Grand Rapids, MI.

Key Points About Otosclerosis

  • Otosclerosis is an abnormal bone growth in the middle ear that prevents the tiny bones from vibrating normally.
  • This leads to hearing loss, because sound waves can’t reach the inner ear effectively.
  • Women aged 15–30 are most commonly affected, but anyone can develop otosclerosis.
  • The condition can also affect the inner ear and balance system, causing dizziness and nausea.
  • Treatment options include:
    • Hearing aids to amplify sound and improve communication.
    • Surgery (stapedectomy/stapedotomy) to replace the affected stapes with a prosthesis.
    • Possible supplements (fluoride, calcium, vitamin D) in selected cases, though more research is needed.
  • Diagnosis is made through hearing tests, middle ear testing, and sometimes imaging, all available through major Grand Rapids health systems and ENT clinics.

If you live in Grand Rapids, MI, and suspect you may have otosclerosis or another hearing problem, contact a local ENT specialist or audiologist to discuss evaluation and treatment options.