The Human Ear

The visible part of the human ear is only a very small part of our ear and hearing system.

How Do We Hear

In audiology, we learn that the ear is actually an extremely complex organisation of bones, muscles, membranes, cells and nerves that form a pathway that leads to the brain. It is actually the brain that “hears” and not the floppy structures on the side of our heads.

Why Treat Hearing Loss?

Active listening connects us to our surroundings and to each other. Untreated hearing loss can make this process much more challenging. This often creates feelings of disconnection and isolation from both the world and the people around us.

Recognising and treating hearing loss is about more than just improving your ability to hear. It's essential for maintaining a sense of connection and presence in your life.

Act Now:

  • Hearing loss should not be ignored. It will impact your health and wellbeing in many ways.
  • Don’t allow hearing loss to cause you to feel disconnected or isolated.
  • Seek the correct help from the correct people and treat your hearing loss as soon as possible. 

    How the Ear Works:

    1. Sound Collection:

    Outer Ear (Pinna): Captures sound waves and directs them into the ear canal.

    2. Sound Transmission:

    Ear Canal: Channels sound waves to the eardrum.

    Eardrum (Tympanic Membrane): Vibrates in response to sound waves

    3. Sound Amplification:

    Middle Ear: Consists of three tiny bones (ossicles: malleus, incus, stapes) that amplify and transfer vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear.

    4. Sound Conversion:

    Inner Ear (Cochlea): Converts vibrations into electrical signals. The cochlea’s hair cells detect vibrations and send signals through the auditory nerve.

    5. Signal Processing:

    Auditory Nerve: Transmits electrical signals to the brain, where they are interpreted as sound.

    This process allows us to perceive and understand sounds from our environment.