Kõrvakanal

Kõrvakanal, also known as the ear canal or auditory canal, is a tube that connects the outer ear to the eardrum. It is a crucial part of the human auditory system, responsible for channeling sound waves from the environment into the middle ear. The kõrvakanal is lined with skin and contains small glands that produce earwax, a substance that helps to protect the ear from dust, bacteria, and other foreign particles. The earwax also has a lubricating function.

The kõrvakanal plays a vital role in the process of hearing. Sound waves entering the ear are funneled by the shape of the outer ear, the auricle or pinna, into the kõrvakanal. As these sound waves travel through the canal, they vibrate the eardrum, also known as the tympanic membrane. These vibrations are then transmitted to the tiny bones in the middle ear, which further amplify and relay the sound to the inner ear, where they are converted into electrical signals that the brain interprets as sound.

The structure of the kõrvakanal is such that it is slightly curved, which helps to prevent direct entry of foreign objects. Its length and diameter vary slightly between individuals. It is important to maintain the health of the kõrvakanal and avoid inserting objects into it, as this can damage the eardrum or push earwax deeper, leading to hearing problems or infections. Proper hygiene, such as cleaning the outer ear gently, is generally sufficient for maintaining a healthy kõrvakanal.