Last reviewed: May 12, 2026 Last updated: May 12, 2026

Written by: Jay Hastings , CEO of PlexusDx

Jay Hastings is the CEO of PlexusDx, a precision health company focused on genetic testing, blood biomarker insights, and personalized wellness recommendations. He has more than 20 years of experience across healthcare innovation, genomics, laboratory operations, healthcare investing, and strategic finance. His work has included scaling healthcare startups, leading CLIA lab integrations, and helping expand consumer access to precision health tools.

Medically reviewed by: Jayden Lee, PharmD, EMBA

Jayden Lee, PharmD, EMBA, is the PlexusDx Medical Science Liaison with a PharmD and MBA specializing in pharmacogenomics and clinical product development, with a proven ability to bridge the gap between genomic research and practical patient outcomes. Dr. Lee has more than 10 years of professional experience in clinical pharmacy, academia, and research.

Have you personally encountered buzzing or ringing noises in your ears before?

You may have observed a slow hearing loss that began with one ear before spreading to both ears. The abnormal growth of bones in the middle ear which causes hearing loss is a condition called otosclerosis. This blog post examines otosclerosis through an exploration of its symptoms and risk factors while presenting its treatment options to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of the condition and effective management strategies.

Otosclerosis targets the middle ear

where excessive bone growth develops around the stapes bone which is essential for sound transmission. The dysfunctional bone growth surrounding the stapes prevents it from vibrating when sound waves strike it thus causing hearing difficulties. Patients with otosclerosis will experience progressive hearing loss beginning in one ear before affecting both ears along with ringing or buzzing sounds in the ears known as tinnitus as well as balance issues and difficulty hearing low-volume or muffled sounds.

The risk factors for developing otosclerosis

encompass age as it usually begins in young adulthood along with women being more affected than men while symptoms tend to intensify during pregnancy and genetic predisposition as the disease often runs in families as well as a greater occurrence among Caucasian populations. The genetic model for otosclerosis lacks strong evidence which necessitates additional research to confirm findings in this domain.

A variety of treatment options exist to help people manage otosclerosis

and enhance their quality of life. Available treatment options for otosclerosis are hearing aids for amplifying sound in mild to moderate hearing loss cases, sodium fluoride medications to potentially slow disease progression in some patients, and surgical solutions like stapedectomy which replaces the fixed stapes bone with a prosthetic substitute. Managing otosclerosis successfully relies on early detection and treatment while individuals with a hereditary predisposition should perform regular hearing assessments to track their auditory condition.

The condition of otosclerosis poses substantial threats to both hearing capabilities and life quality for affected individuals.

People who understand otosclerosis symptoms along with its associated risk factors and treatment alternatives can better manage their condition through proactive measures to obtain proper healthcare. Anyone who suspects symptoms of otosclerosis or has relatives with the condition should seek professional medical advice to obtain a detailed examination and custom treatment strategy. Explore Precision Health & Wellness tests from PlexusDx to understand your genetic risk factors and take control of your auditory health through options available at PlexusDx.com and in stores like Amazon and Walmart.

Medical and Editorial Standards

Medical review process: This article was reviewed for medical accuracy, scientific clarity, evidence alignment, and appropriate discussion of genetics, medications, supplements, biomarkers, and health-related claims.

Sources and evidence: PlexusDx educational content is developed using peer-reviewed research, clinical literature, reputable medical references, and, where applicable, public health or regulatory guidance. References are included at the end of the article when scientific, medical, or health-related claims are discussed.

Commercial transparency: PlexusDx offers genetic testing, blood biomarker testing, personalized supplement recommendations, and related precision wellness services. Product mentions are intended to help readers understand available options and should not be interpreted as medical advice.

Important disclaimer: PlexusDx educational content is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about medications, supplements, genetic testing, lab testing, or health-related care.

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