What is the tensor tympani?
The tensor tympani is a muscle in the middle ear that helps to protect the inner ear from loud sounds. It is located in the semicanal of tensor tympani on the medial wall of the middle ear space. Its tendon is attached to the malleus, which is one of the three ossicles in the middle ear.
What is the main function of tensor tympani?
The main function of the tensor tympani is to dampen the vibrations of the tympanic membrane (eardrum) in response to loud sounds. This helps to protect the inner ear from damage. The tensor tympani does this by contracting and pulling the malleus medially. This action stiffens the ossicular chain, which reduces the transmission of sound waves to the inner ear.
What is the function of tensor tympani and stapedius?
The tensor tympani and stapedius are two muscles in the middle ear that help to protect the inner ear from loud sounds. The tensor tympani contracts in response to loud sounds, while the stapedius contracts in response to sudden loud sounds.
The tensor tympani pulls the malleus medially, which stiffens the ossicular chain and reduces the transmission of sound waves to the inner ear. The stapedius pulls the stapes (the third ossicle in the middle ear) away from the oval window, which also helps to reduce the transmission of sound waves to the inner ear.
Is tensor tympani control rare?
Yes, tensor tympani control is rare. It is a condition in which people can voluntarily contract the tensor tympani muscle. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including a feeling of fullness in the ear, a change in hearing, and a ringing or buzzing sound in the ear (tinnitus).
Tensor tympani control is thought to be caused by an imbalance in the nerves that control the muscle. The condition is often associated with other neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis and stroke.
If you are experiencing symptoms of tensor tympani control, it is important to see an audiologist or otolaryngologist. They can diagnose the condition and recommend treatment options.