Internal ear

Internal ear is the innermost part of the ear, which is a complex system responsible for hearing and balance. It consists of two main structures: the cochlea, which is involved in hearing, and the vestibular system, which is involved in balance.

Anatomy

The internal ear is located within the temporal bone, one of the bones of the skull. It is surrounded by a hard bony labyrinth and contains a system of fluid-filled tubes and sacs known as the membranous labyrinth.

Cochlea

The cochlea is a spiral-shaped structure that is responsible for converting sound vibrations into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain. It contains the organ of Corti, which is the sensory organ of hearing.

Vestibular system

The vestibular system consists of three semicircular canals and two otolith organs (the utricle and the saccule). These structures detect changes in head position and movement, helping to maintain balance and spatial orientation.

Function

The internal ear plays a crucial role in both hearing and balance. Sound waves enter the ear and cause the eardrum to vibrate. These vibrations are then transmitted to the cochlea via the auditory ossicles. Within the cochlea, these vibrations are converted into electrical signals that are sent to the brain via the auditory nerve.

The vestibular system detects changes in head position and movement. When the head moves, the fluid within the semicircular canals and otolith organs shifts, stimulating hair cells that send signals to the brain. This information is used to maintain balance and spatial orientation.

Disorders

There are many disorders that can affect the internal ear, including Meniere's disease, vestibular neuritis, and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). These conditions can cause symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss.

See also

• Ear
• Hearing
• Balance (ability)
• Vestibular system
• Cochlea

Internal ear Resources
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