Otoliths, commonly referred to as “ear-stones,” are rigid, calcium carbonate structures situated directly behind the brain of bony fishes. Within your inner ear, they are immersed in fluid and surrounded by delicate, hairlike sensors known as sensory hair cells. These specialized cells play a crucial role in maintaining visual focus on a target while your head is in motion and also contribute to your sense of balance.
Otoliths, commonly referred to as “ear-stones,” are rigid structures made of calcium carbonate found directly behind the brain of bony fishes. These structures are present within the inner ear and are surrounded by fluid and fine, hairlike sensors. These sensory hair cells play a crucial role in maintaining visual focus on a target while your head is in motion and also contribute to your sense of balance.
Did you know not only do you have Kidney Stones, or Gallstones; but you also get Ear Stones…
Have you ever sat up too fast, and felt like you were going to fall over. You needed to grab the wall, while your head started spinning, or all of sudden you got a rush to your head when you stood up too fast. …It’s more common than you think!!
Vertigo is a distressing sensation characterized by the perception that the surrounding environment is spinning or moving in circles. This disorienting feeling can lead to dizziness and a sense of being off-balance. It is crucial to understand that vertigo is not a standalone disease but rather a symptom associated with various underlying health conditions. Consequently, it may occur alongside other symptoms, which can include:
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Dizziness.
- Balance issues.
- Hearing loss in one or both ears.
- Tinnitus (ringing in your ears).
- Headaches.
- Motion sickness.
- A feeling of fullness in your ear.
- Nystagmus (a condition that causes your eyes to move from side to side rapidly and uncontrollably).
Recent studies have indicated that otolith dysfunction is frequently observed in individuals who have experienced head trauma, blast exposure, and/or noise-induced hearing issues.
Damage to the otoliths or their central connections can impair ocular and body stabilization
If you have any further questions or concerns regarding functional neurology, please make an appointment with Dr. Funk and he would be happy to have a consultation with you. Be sure to follow us on Facebook to stay up to date on our business.