kuulmisfunktse
Kuulmisfunktsioon refers to the auditory function, the biological process by which living organisms detect sound. This intricate system involves the ear, the auditory nerve, and the brain, working in concert to interpret vibrations in the air as meaningful sound. The external ear captures sound waves and directs them into the ear canal, where they strike the eardrum. This vibration is then amplified by the small bones of the middle ear – the malleus, incus, and stapes – and transmitted to the cochlea in the inner ear. Within the cochlea, the vibrations stimulate thousands of tiny hair cells. These cells convert the mechanical energy of sound into electrical signals, which are then sent along the auditory nerve to the brain. The auditory cortex in the brain processes these signals, allowing us to perceive pitch, loudness, timbre, and location of sounds. Impairments in any part of this chain can lead to hearing loss. Factors affecting kuulmisfunktsioon include age, exposure to loud noise, genetic predispositions, and certain medical conditions. Maintaining good auditory health involves protecting the ears from excessive noise and seeking prompt medical attention for any hearing concerns.