tympanic membrane
Middle ear bones that carry vibrations to oval window
The tympanic membrane, also known as the eardrum, is a thin, circular membrane that separates the external ear canal from the middle ear. It is made up of three layers: an outer layer of skin, a middle layer of fibrous tissue, and an inner layer of mucous membrane.
The tympanic membrane plays a crucial role in the process of hearing. When sound waves enter the outer ear canal, they cause the tympanic membrane to vibrate. These vibrations are then transmitted to the three small bones in the middle ear, known as the ossicles, which amplify the sound and transfer it to the inner ear.
The tympanic membrane is susceptible to damage from a range of factors, including infection, trauma, and exposure to loud noise. A ruptured eardrum can cause hearing loss, ear pain, and an increased risk of infection. Treatment for a ruptured eardrum may involve antibiotics, pain relief medication, and surgery in severe cases.
Overall, the tympanic membrane is a vital component of the auditory system and plays a critical role in our ability to hear and perceive sound.
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