Our ears provide one of our most essential senses, hearing. Hearing doesn’t just allow us to listen to music or watch TV; it also helps us communicate and build meaningful relationships. But, the ear is much more intricate than what we see. Inside, it houses one of the body's most complex systems: the auditory canal.
Hearing is one of our most essential senses, it helps us communicate, build meaningful relationships, and enjoy the sounds of life. But, the ear is much more intricate than what we see. Inside, it houses one of the body's most complex systems.
The auditory canal, also known as the outer ear canal, is a tube that runs from the outer ear to the eardrum. It includes:
Did you know: From the eardrum to the footplate of the stapes, there is a transfer function that can make sound up to 26 dB louder. The larger size of the eardrum is magnified and concentrated on to the smaller surface area of the stapes footplate. Any disruption in the ear drum, middle ear, or ossicles can result in up to 60 dB of hearing loss.
Hearing begins with the auricle collecting sound waves, which travel through the auditory canal to vibrate the eardrum. These vibrations are then amplified by the middle ear bones and passed on to the cochlea. Inside the cochlea, fluid movements stimulate hair cells, converting these vibrations into electrical signals. These signals are carried by the auditory nerve to the brain's auditory cortex, where they are interpreted, allowing us to perceive and understand sounds.
Human ears are susceptible to sound and can easily be damaged by loud noises. To protect your auditory canal and your hearing from harm, following a few precautions can help:
Learn more about how to protect your hearing.
Avoid listening to loud music through headphones or earbuds for prolonged periods. Follow the 60/60 rule: Never listen to music at more than 60 percent of maxium volume for more than 60 minutes.
Just like any part of the body, the ear canal can encounter various issues. While some problems can be addressed easily, others may require assistance from a hearing care provider.
A person should consult with a hearing professional if they experience any of the following issues:
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to consult with a hearing professional. At Amplifon Hearing Health Care, our dedicated team of hearing care providers can address your questions and concerns and work towards finding a solution.
Request an appointment at a hearing care provider near you.
