EARS
Description:
The main functions of the ear are hearing and balance. It has three main sections. The outer ear contains an ear canal, which secretes wax for protection and extends to the eardrum. It also has a pinna (or auricle) made of cartilage. The middle ear consists of the three bones malleus, incus, and stapes. These take vibrations and transfer them to the inner ear. The middle ear also has the Eustachian tube to manage ear pressure with the eardrum. Finally, the inner ear (or the labyrinth) controls balance and contains the cochlea. They take the signals from the middle ear and send them to the nervous system.
Diseases and Conditions
Otitis media
Inflammation of the middle ear leads to earaches. It is caused by infections as germs grow in the Eustachian tubes.
Ruptured eardrum
Loud noises can suddenly change the pressure inside the ear, tearing the eardrum and creating a hole inside it.
Tinnitus
The perception that there is an audible sound even when there is not. It can be a ringing, clicking, or hissing sound and can either be rhythmic or non-rhythmic. It can be caused by spasms in the inner ear bones like the tensor tympani or the stapedial muscle.
Swimmer’s Ear (Otitis externa)
Infection in the outer ear that is caused most commonly by bacteria that get inside the ear canal when not enough earwax is produced. It can lead to itching, pain, or muffled sound.
Meniere’s disease
Fluid buildup in the inner ear causes vertigo, which is a dizzy sensation. It may also lead to tinnitus and hearing issues.