Otosclerosis

[dms116]

I have had this condition since my 2nd pregnancy at age 22yrs. I am now 65 yrs old and whilst the disease is degenerative, following two operations and the use of hearing aids I still have some hearing in one ear. However, as it has got worse I am now struggling profoundly with all the symptoms ie tinnitus, vertigo and ear infections. Any advice to help me cope with all this would be welcome. Thanks

[MickeyJoints]

Hi DMS,

I've not got the conditions you mention, just normal age related deafness. I think this forum is a bit quiet, at the moment.

I hope you get some relief.

[jayfer]

Hi, sorry I can't help with any coping ideas but my gp put me on medication for dizziness which also helps with vertigo and tinnitus, so maybe ask them for help. Audiology also gave me a 'sound box' to try for tinnitus at night, wearing hearing aid is also supposed to help with the tinnitus too. Hope you find some relief

[GRboyRiches]

It would seem your best option now, would be to consider BAHA (bone anchored Hearing Aid), the moulds may be the reason you have repeated infections, ask you GP or on your next ENT appointment mention it... beat wishes.

[Nie3000]

Hi Dms,

I've heard there is an option of a BAHA implant. Having Otosclerosis myself means I'm considering this option too and it sounds positive and is reversible if need be. Maybe you could ask your audiologist?

If you're struggling with hearing loss in general, I found it knocked my confidence and I worried how I'd cope socially and in work, I strongly believe learning sign language is a great way to cope and is a fun skill to learn even if its more a hobby than a communication necessity. I've met so many people who have hearing difficulties of all kinds who go to BSL classes and its very rewarding in itself.

x