The ear consists of an entire system responsible for the collection and early processing of sound. This system includes the outer ear, the auditory canal, the tympanic membrane (eardrum), the middle and inner ear (cochlea), the auditory nerve, and the eustachian tube. Hearing occurs when sound waves strike the eardrum, sending vibrations to the inner ear. There, the sound is transformed into nerve impulses that then travel to the brain.

The ear has two main passageways. The outer ear canal (auditory canal) connects the middle and inner ear with the outside world, while the eustachian tube runs from the middle ear to the back of the nasal cavity, providing a way to equalize air pressure. While the outer and middle ear components are involved with hearing only, semicircular canals at the top of the inner ear help us maintain our balance as well as assisting in the hearing process.

For our ears to be healthy, air in the middle ear must be at the same atmospheric pressure as air outside the ear. Air reaches the middle ear via the eustachian tube, which is connected to the back of the nose. Air passes through this tube to equalize pressure 1,000 times a day.

Ear Conditions and Complications
• Dizziness
• Ear Infections
• Ear Wax Blockage
• Meniere's Disease
• Ruptured Eardrum
• Swimmer's Ear

If you have questions or concerns about the health of your ears or issues of balance, please contact Coast Plaza ENT Center at (562) 868-3751, extension 2078.

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The Facts

The Ear
The Nose
The Throat