The vestibular apparatus is part of the inner ear and is responsible for maintaining balance and orientation in space. It consists of the semicircular canals and cochlea, which are filled with fluid.
The semicircular canals are located in three planes and detect acceleration of the head in any direction. The cochlea, in turn, contains the organ of Corti, which responds to changes in the position of the head in relation to the earth's axis.
Signals received from the vestibular apparatus are transmitted to the brain and processed in the balance centers. This allows a person to maintain balance when walking, running, turning and other movements.
However, with some diseases, such as Meniere's disease or poisoning with certain substances, the vestibular apparatus can disrupt its functioning. This can lead to dizziness, nausea and loss of balance.
There are special exercises that help improve the functioning of the vestibular apparatus and restore balance. There are also medications that reduce symptoms associated with dysfunction of the vestibular apparatus.
In general, the vestibular apparatus is an important part of our system of orientation and balance. His work provides us with the opportunity to move freely and experience the world around us.