Challenging Early Hearing Loss Diagnosis: A Success Story.

Marlene Schultz, a 47-year-old accountant from Pennsylvania, was told by an ear, nose, and throat specialist that her permanent hearing loss was caused by listening to loud music years earlier. However, after an 18-month quest involving multiple specialists, Schultz was diagnosed with otosclerosis, a condition that affects the middle ear and can be surgically treated. Schultz underwent two surgeries and has since regained about 90% of her hearing in both ears. Her experience led to the diagnosis and successful surgery of a co-worker and revealed the importance of seeking second opinions when a diagnosis doesn't sit right.