These sections work together to enable hearing and maintain balance and equilibrium.
The outer ear is where sound waves from the air are received.
This article will describe the anatomy and function of the outer ear.
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It also lists conditions that can affect the outer ear and explains how these conditions are diagnosed.
The walls of the canal are made up of one-third cartilage and two-thirds bone.
The vibration of the ossicles causes the fluid-filled organs of the inner ear to vibrate.
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These impulses are delivered to the brain via theauditory nerve.
The eardrum is encircled by a ring of cartilage that holds it in place.
Associated Conditions Involving the Outer Ear
A number of conditions can affect the outer ear.
It is typically triggered by trauma, such as a sports injury or a blow to the head.
The blood may reabsorb on its own, but severe causes could require drainage by a healthcare professional.
Perichondritis
Perichondritisis a bacterial infection of the tissues lining your ear cartilage.
Symptoms of perichondritis include pain, redness, and swelling.
Treatment typically involves a course of oralantibiotics.
Left untreated, perichondritis can also lead to complications like cauliflower ear.
This can cause itchiness, pain,tinnitus(ringing in the ears), or even hearing loss.
Your healthcare provider will likely give you a medication to soften the wax.
Over-the-counter ear drops won’t cause harm, but it is unclear whether they actually help.
Irrigation and manual removal by a healthcare provider may be necessary in more severe cases.
They appear as small, smooth bony growths, usually in both ears.
Most of the time, exostoses dont require treatment.
Surgical removal may be required if hearing loss or obstruction occurs, however.
Foreign Body Obstruction
Obstructions occur when there is a foreign body lodged in the ear canal.
This is a common problem with small children.
Items lodged in the ear can cause irritation, inflammation, and the formation of ulcers.
Extraction should be done by a healthcare provider using the appropriate pain management and tools.
Usually sparked by bacteria in contaminated water, otitis externa can cause pain and even swelling or eardrum injury.
Swimmer’s ear can be treated with antibiotics, steroids, and pain medications.
In most cases, your healthcare provider will be able to visually inspect the outer ear.
In some cases, they may use an otoscope for a more detailed view.
You should always check with a healthcare professional before putting anything in your ear.
Some home remedies, likecandling, are no longer recommended.
If you are experiencing any of these issues, see a healthcare provider.
These can be diagnosed and treated by a healthcare provider or a specialist known as an otolaryngologist.
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