How the Ear affects balance
We can normally hear sounds across a wide range of frequencies - from very low to very high. Our hearing can be tested using an audiogram. Different disease processes affect our hearing in different ways. The inner ear also contains the organs of balance. There are three semi-circular canals - the labyrinth - which are at right angles to each other, and an organ called the vestibule. The vestibule responds to movement in a linear direction. The semi-circles contain cells which move as we move our heads round or up and down. Disturbances of the action of the cells causes a sensation of dizziness. Information from the cells, coupled with information from our eyes, and other information from our joints, is integrated in the brain in order that we know our orientation in relation to the environment around us. We need information from all three sources to keep our balance. (Try standing on one foot. Now close your eyes).
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