No, otosclerosis does not usually progress quickly. Here are a few facts and risk factors for quick progression:
1. Otoscerosis is slightly more common in females.
2. It is more common in Caucasian races.
3. It may have a family history.
4. It is a multi-factorial disease, and the cause may remain unknown. There may be a history of measles or trauma in childhood.
5. It accelerates during
pregnancy in 30 to 40% female patients.
6. It's progression may not be constant. It may have periods of remission or even temporary improvement.
7. The exact site of the new bone formation is important. An HRCT Temporal Bones can pick up the exact sites.
8. About 30% patients with active otosclerosis will have a pink hue on the
eardrum known as the Shwartze Sign or Flamingo Flush. This is attributed to congested blood vessels due to active otosclerosis.
9. Sodium
Fluoride (Otoflour) tablets are given in the dose of 20 to 40 mg per day for many months to slow the progression of the disease.
10. Surgery (
Stapedectomy), if successful, will improve hearing for one or two decades.
11. Ultimately, the patient develops
cochlear otosclerosis which causes sensorineural
hearing loss and requires a
hearing aid.
12. Otosclerosis in only one ear is less common. If you do not develop otosclerosis in your other ear, treatment will be based on you audiometric needs.