Kuulmis

Kuulmis refers to the sense of hearing, the biological process by which organisms perceive sound. In humans it relies on a chain of structures from the outer ear to the brain, converting sound waves into neural signals that are interpreted as pitch, volume, and rhythm.

Anatomy and physiology: The outer ear collects sound and channels it through the ear canal to the tympanic membrane, which vibrates in response to pressure waves. The middle ear contains three tiny bones—the malleus, incus, and stapes—that amplify vibrations. The inner ear houses the cochlea, where hair cells convert movement into neural signals arriving at the brain via the auditory nerve.

Central processing of sound occurs in the brain, enabling localization, differentiation from noise, and interpretation as speech, music, or environmental sounds. Hearing development begins in infancy, with screening and intervention improving language outcomes for many children.

Hearing loss can be conductive, sensorineural, or mixed. Conductive loss stems from problems in the outer or middle ear, such as infections or obstructions. Sensorineural loss involves damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve and is often related to aging, noise exposure, genetics, or disease. Mixed loss combines both.

Assessment and treatment: Audiometry measures hearing thresholds; tympanometry assesses middle-ear function. Treatments include hearing aids and cochlear implants, as well as medical or surgical management of underlying conditions. Rehabilitation and communication strategies support affected individuals.

Public health and research: Protecting hearing through safe listening practices reduces risk. Ongoing research explores auditory neuroscience, device technology, and interventions that improve auditory perception and quality of life.