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Vestibular apparatus: disorders, treatment

Briefly about the structure of the vestibular apparatus. It represents the peripheral part vestibular analyzer- the organ of balance, while the overlying nerve pathways, nuclei and cortical nerve cells constitute the central section of the analyzer. Vestibular apparatus How component inner ear located in the temporal bone of the skull, in its densest “stony” part – the pyramid. The inner ear is also called the labyrinth. The labyrinth consists of auditory department- cochlea (located anteriorly and inferiorly), vestibular section - semicircular canals (posterior and superior) and vestibule (located between them). In humans, there are three semicircular canals, which look like semicircles, the open ends of which (legs) are, as it were, soldered into the bony wall of the vestibule. The canals are located in three different planes, which is why they got their name - horizontal, frontal and sagittal. The vestibule looks like an elongated ball, and the cochlea really resembles a snail.

The inner ear is connected to the middle ear through two “windows” - oval and round. These windows are not open. Oval window located in the bony wall of the vestibule and covered by the stirrup - one of the three auditory ossicles. The base of the stirrup does not completely cover the window; between it and the walls of the window there is a narrow elastic ligament, thanks to which the stapes under the influence of sound vibrations easily moves both towards the vestibule (into the inner ear) and towards tympanic cavity(in the middle ear). Another window (round) is located in the bone capsule of the main (first) curl of the cochlea. This window also does not gape; it is closed by a dense but pliable elastic (secondary) membrane.

Inside the bony labyrinth there is a membranous labyrinth, which, with the exception of the vestibule, completely follows the contours of the bony labyrinth. The space between the walls of the bony and membranous labyrinth is filled with a fluid - perilymph, whose properties are close to intercellular fluid(to blood serum). The membranous labyrinth is a closed space filled with another fluid, endolymph. Endolymph does not have direct contact with perilymph and differs sharply from it in many respects (for example, in the concentration of potassium and sodium ions).

The membranous labyrinth consists of three sections: the semicircular canals, the vestibular sacs and the cochlear duct. All these formations are connected to each other as follows: the semicircular canals have a wide connection with one of the vestibule sacs - the utriculus, and the cochlear duct is connected through a small canaliculus to another vestibule sac - the sacculus. Thin tubules (one from each) extend from the sacculus and utriculus, which immediately merge into one common tubule, ending in an expansion in the form of a bag in the thickness of the hard tissue. meninges on back wall pyramids of the temporal bone. Unlike the endolymphatic closed space, the perilymphatic space communicates with the cranial cavity (with the subarachnoid space) through its small bone canal. However, this does not mean that the perilymph and cerebrospinal fluid normally have contact. The channel in the pyramid is filled with loose connective tissue, serving as a filter, allowing only certain substances to pass in one direction or another.

In some diseases of the ear or brain, this barrier can be destroyed, and then the fluids mix (perilymph and cerebrospinal fluid), biochemical composition which in normal conditions different.

“Pollution” of the perilymph cerebrospinal fluid may lead to hearing loss. A microbial infection sometimes spreads through this tubule, causing arachnoiditis, meningitis, and brain abscesses.

In a healthy ear, there is a certain balance between the pressure of the endolymphatic and perilymphatic spaces, as well as between the endolymphatic space and the subarachnoid space. This balance ensures the normal tone of the membranous labyrinth, which is very important for the functioning of nerve receptor cells. Changes in pressure (mainly between perilymph and endolymph) can lead to auditory or vestibular disorders.

Most important part The organ of balance are receptor cells located in the membranous part of the semicircular canals of the vestibule sacs. Each bony semicircular canal has an extension at one end of its semicircle - an ampulla, in which receptor cells are located. Clusters of these cells are called cupula (flap). The cupula resembles a flap between the semicircular canals and the utriculus. There are only three of them - one in each ampoule. This structure facilitates easy deviation of cupular hairs in one direction or another at the slightest displacement of the endolymph. The displacement of hairs emerging from nerve cells is perceived as a signal that the head or body is moving in space.

In the sacs of the vestibule - the sacculus and utriculus - there are accumulations of another kind of nerve cells that look like a white calcareous speck (macula) and represent the otolithic apparatus. The hairs of nerve cells are immersed in crystals - otoliths (from the Greek “otos” - ear, “cast” - stone), which are washed by endolymph. The otoliths of the sacculus are located in the frontal plane, and the ratio of their position in the right and left labyrinth is 45°. The otoliths of the utriculus are located in the sagittal plane, and in relation to each other (in the right and left ear) - horizontally.

Nerve fibers extending from the nerve cells of the semicircular canals and sacs are collected into nerve bundles and exit through the internal ear canal together with facial nerve into the cranial cavity - the brain stem. Here they form nuclei - clusters of nerve intermediate cells. Between the vestibular nuclei there is cross-link. With the help of nerve fibers, the nerve cells of the nuclei are connected to the cells spinal cord, cerebellum, reticular formation, thalamus, with nuclei oculomotor nerves, vagus nerve and cerebral cortex (mainly the temporal lobe)...

All nerve pathways coming from receptor cells (from the peripheral part of the balance organ) are called afferent, carrying a signal from the periphery to the center. Along with this, there are also efferent connections that transmit nerve impulses from central departments brain to the vestibular receptor. Such a diverse and mutual connection ensures complete balance and preservation of skeletal muscle tone both at rest and during movement (human statics and kinetics). At the same time, this connection in the case of pathology of the labyrinth or with excessive vestibular loads causes the appearance of painful side effects palpitations, nausea, vomiting, involuntary urination and so on.

Every person makes a lot of body movements every day: walking, squatting, turning. Often all movements are given without the slightest effort and turn out smooth. However, sometimes an extra step or bending of the body causes serious discomfort: dizziness, disorientation and nausea sets in. Perhaps the reason lies in a disease or disorder of the vestibular apparatus.

What is the vestibular apparatus

The organs of balance have complex system buildings and are responsible for several functions simultaneously. However, the main one among many others is the vestibular analyzer - a peripheral part of the system responsible for correct orientation in space. If there are any violations of the coordination system, a person loses the ability to maintain balance, navigate in space, perceive visual and audio information, and begins to feel dizzy.

Where is the organ of balance located?

If you open an anatomy textbook, you can see many photos of the structure of the balance system. However, most of these images do not provide a clear idea of where the vestibular apparatus is located in humans. If you imagine the structure cranium from the inside, you can find that this organ is located in the inner ear. Around the balance apparatus are the semicircular canals, jelly-like endolymph and receptors of the vestibular analyzer.

How does the vestibular apparatus work?

The components of the system are three semicircular tubules - the utriculus and the otolith organ - the sacculus. The channels are filled from the inside with a viscous liquid and have the shape of a shell, at the base of which there is a seal - jelly-like cupules. The sacculus is divided into two sacs: round and oval shape. Above them are small crystals of calcium carbonate - otoliths.

Under the sealing valve there are ciliated cells of the inner ear, with the help of which two types of signals are transmitted: static and dynamic. The first are associated with the position of the body, the second with the acceleration of movement. In general, the coordination organ is formed in such a way that at the slightest tilt and turn of the head or walking, all the component parts interact at once.

How does the balance organ work?

Although the vestibular system is located inside the bone box, this does not prevent it from collecting information not only about the position of the head, but also the arms, legs and other organs human body. The connection with the balance apparatus is particularly secure. nerve endings, gastrointestinal tract, of cardio-vascular system. That is why, after being nervous and drinking too much coffee, many people feel dizzy.

Under the influence of attraction, the jelly-like liquid and the crystals in it will shift, affecting the balance receptors. The villi will immediately transmit information to the brain about changes in balance, and from there instructions will come to other organs: change muscle tone, move your leg or arm to the right, stand up straighter. At the same time, it is very interesting that the vestibular system is configured only for horizontal movement of the body, therefore, when going up in an elevator or flying on an airplane, many experience severe nausea, ringing in the ears, dizziness.

Functions

In close proximity to optic nerves And ears the balance system has nothing to do with hearing or vision. Main function vestibular apparatus - analyze changes in the position of the arms, legs, torso or head and transmit data to the brain. The organ quickly reacts to minimal external influence, detecting even the slightest changes in the gravitational field of the planet, helping to maintain balance in complete blindness or navigate in unfamiliar space.

Vestibular disorders

Due to the fact that all components of the balance apparatus act together, while it manages to collect information from other organs of the body, the slightest deviations in one direction or another can lead to disruptions in its functioning. Vestibular disorders cause serious problems V spatial orientation not only in humans, but also in animals or representatives of birds.

Previously, such deviations from the norm affect the gait: it becomes uncertain, shaky, a person can fall for no reason or crash into an upright piece of furniture. In addition, many patients complain of constant dizziness, pain in the temporal region, blurred vision, tinnitus, increased heart rate.

Reasons for violation

Why the vestibular apparatus is disrupted is difficult to answer unequivocally even for an experienced otolaryngologist. For example, a simple head injury or short-term loss of consciousness can lead to this pathology. If an adult complains of dizziness, then it is likely that the cause lies in heart problems. When a system failure occurs after an infection: otitis media, ARVI with complications, inflammation, they speak of intoxication.

Symptoms

Doctors say that the main manifestations of pathology are severe dizziness, loss of coordination and eye twitching. However, the patient is often persecuted by others associated symptoms vestibular apparatus disorders:

attacks of nausea, sometimes vomiting;
changes in color skin, mucous membranes of the mouth, membranes of the eyes;
profuse sweating;
level up blood pressure;
tachycardia;
rapid breathing;
a decrease in body temperature below normal levels;
change in heart rate.

All signs may appear in fits and starts. During periods of calm, the patient feels completely healthy, and attributes previous symptoms of vestibular disorders to fatigue. Often such signs of malaise occur when changing body position, tilting or turning the head, changes in temperature or air humidity, when sudden unpleasant odors.

Diseases of the vestibular apparatus

Doctors count more than 80 different diseases that in one way or another may be associated with a violation of the balance apparatus. An example is diseases endocrine system, traumatic brain injuries, cardiovascular pathologies, serious mental disorders. At the same time, for all diseases of the vestibular system, doctors will have an explanation, a description of the symptoms and ways to check them.

Meniere's disease

This disease of the balance apparatus can be described using only four signs: dizziness, noise or congestion in the ears and hearing loss. The first three symptoms peak within a couple of minutes, gradually subsiding over several hours. Reduced sound perception by early stage reversible. In some patients, Meniere's syndrome may be accompanied by a brief loss of consciousness or balance.

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo

This deviation can occur at any age, but most often affects the elderly. It is caused by infections, traumatic brain injuries, or ischemic disease hearts, sometimes the source cannot be determined. In patients with this diagnosis, a feeling of dizziness, loss of balance and other symptoms appear with every turn, tilt of the torso or head.

Basilar migraine

The syndrome wears short-term nature and usually affects patients under 20 years of age. Basilar or teenage migraine is especially common in girls entering their formative years. menstrual cycle. Headaches, dizziness and nausea in a teenager appear suddenly and in rare cases development lasts more than one hour.

Vestibular neuritis

The disease is possible at any age. Its appearance is often accompanied by acute respiratory infection Therefore, doctors attribute the disease to a viral nature. Neuritis of the vestibular apparatus is accompanied by severe rotational dizziness, vomiting and nausea, and twitching of the eyelid. With the right treatment, the deviation goes away in 3-4 days, but full recovery will take up to several weeks.

What to do if the vestibular system is damaged

When the balance organs fail and signal this in every possible way, a person should first undergo an examination and visit an ENT doctor’s office. Mandatory diagnostics include:

special hardware tests for audiometry and electronystagmography;
CT or MRI of the brain;
blood analysis;
ultrasound examination of blood flow;
vestibular tests.

Training

If the dizziness is minor and only bothers you when traveling on a boat, going up in an elevator, or making sudden turns of the body, your balance apparatus needs to be trained. Exercises for the vestibular apparatus can be mastered by anyone if desired:

Sit on a chair or armchair. Pull forward forefinger and fix your gaze on it. Start turning your head in different directions, gradually increasing the pace.
Next exercise: Take two cards in your hands, straighten your elbows. It is necessary to alternately focus your gaze on one of the cards, while your head must remain motionless.
Stand up, spread your legs, and focus your gaze straight ahead. Start making circular movements with your body. First with a small amplitude, then with a large circle diameter.
All exercises for training the vestibular system should be performed daily with several approaches.

Treatment

If imbalances progress and other symptoms are added to the momentary dizziness, gymnastics will not help. Urgently needed drug treatment vestibular vertigo. The choice of drug and method of therapy will depend on the reasons that caused this:

If damage to the balance apparatus is caused by peripheral polyneuropathy, then diabetes must be treated.
For paroxysmal vertigo, the ENT specialist chooses a special technique: he turns the patient in a certain sequence, the crystals change location, after which an improvement in well-being occurs.
Treatment of dizziness with Meniere's syndrome cannot be done without effective antihistamines and antiemetic drugs. In addition, the patient definitely needs nutritional correction and special diet.
Migraines in children can be treated with aspirin, ergotamine, beta blockers and antidepressants.
If disorders appear at retirement age, the doctor may suggest implanting implants that will restore the lost balance.

Folk remedies for dizziness

Along with drug therapy and preventive gymnastics, you can treat the vestibular apparatus with folk remedies. For example, make ginger tincture:

Take 4 tsp. grated ginger root, mix with a pinch of dried mint, fennel seeds, pumpkin seeds, chamomile flowers and orange zest.
Pour the herbal mixture hot water, let steep for 15 minutes and drink if you experience dizziness, loss of balance, or other signs of systemic disturbances.

In case of persistent dysfunction of the balance apparatus, a balm made from three tinctures helps strengthen a weak body at home:

For half a liter of alcohol, take 4 tablespoons of clover inflorescences. Wrap the container with foil and leave for 2 weeks.
For the same amount of alcohol, take 5 tbsp. l. Dioscorea root. Insist as in the previous recipe.
Fill the propolis with alcohol and put it in a dark place. After 10 days, strain the tincture.
Mix all three components and take 1 tbsp three times after meals. l.

Video: what the vestibular apparatus is responsible for

Modern otorhinolaryngologists and neurologists are often faced with the need to treat vestibular disorders in adults. Symptoms of diseases caused by a disorder of this system significantly affect the patient’s condition and affect his usual lifestyle. Despite the fact that everyone has heard about the concept of the vestibular apparatus, not everyone knows what it is and where it is located.

Where is the vestibular apparatus located?

This department nervous system is responsible for body balance when standing and walking, orientation in space. For disorders of the vestibular system, treatment is a set of measures to restore sensitivity and coordination of movements, eliminate problems with vision and hearing.

It is known that it is located in the temporal part of the head, or rather in the ear. This arrangement can be considered quite safe, since it ensures the integrity of the organ during various injuries Oh. The vestibular apparatus functions as an analyzer that perceives changes in the position of the head and body in space, determining the direction of movement. It is found only in vertebrates and humans.

The causes of vestibular apparatus disorders and the treatment of diseases caused by them are directly related. Thus, disorders of this part of the nervous system occur due to damage to the semicircular ear canals, vestibulocochlear nerve and brain cells. Accordingly, in order to eliminate the symptoms and return the functioning of the organ to normal indicators, first of all it is necessary to cure the injuries.

Main functions

So, maintaining balance and orientation in space is the main purpose of the vestibular organ. In addition, the department in question is responsible:

for a straight gait;
vision;
coordinated eye movements;
nausea when rotating the body;
sense of one's own location.

Thanks to the connection of the organ with the heart and brain, the occurrence of dizziness with changes in blood pressure, pain in the heart, and emotional expression can be explained.

Main symptoms of pathology

The external manifestations of some diseases are obvious signs disorders of the vestibular apparatus. Treatment for ear dysfunction should not only be symptomatic, but have A complex approach, since it significantly affects the patient’s quality of life. The most common complaints are:

Disturbed balance. Head turns with eyes closed the patient performs hesitantly, as he is afraid of falling. Precise and instant movements become impossible.
Vestibular vertigo. Treatment of diseases of the vestibular apparatus pursues main goal- restore correct perception of space and orientation in it. Many patients feel as if the ground is disappearing from under their feet, everything is spinning around them, and the body is falling down.
Background nausea. As a rule, this symptom accompanies dizziness. In severe cases, it develops into vomiting.
Nystagmus. Inability to focus vision and concentrate on objects, especially those that are close. Thus, the need to treat disorders of the vestibular apparatus is indicated when uncoordinated eye movements interfere with reading or writing, and when, for example, a person tries to grab an object nearby with his hand, he misses.
"Floating" gait. This symptom often prevents the patient from leading familiar image life. When walking, the patient constantly sways from side to side and falls.

In addition to the above signs, other symptoms of vestibular disorders are possible. Treatment involves eliminating fluctuations in pulse rate, breathing and pressure, tinnitus, and pain relief for cephalalgia.

Causes of vestibular dysfunction

The causes of such disorders, as already mentioned, are the results of various injuries and diseases of the nervous, cardiovascular systems, and hearing organs. Among the pathologies diagnosed for disorders of the vestibular apparatus, it is worth noting:

Benign positional vertigo. People over 50 years of age are at risk. The cause of the disease is considered to be the deposition of calcium salts in the canals of the inner ear.
Neuritis of the vestibulocochlear nerve. Most often, the pathology develops against the background of previous viral infections, including herpes, chickenpox, influenza. The disease is accompanied by dizziness, decreased hearing acuity, and increased sweating.
Vertebro-basilar syndrome. The reason for the development this state serves as poor circulation and insufficient blood flow to the brain caused by pathologies of soft tissues and blood vessels cervical region. Most often found in older people.
Vestibulopathy. The disease is provoked by exposure toxic drugs. In most cases - antibiotics. Among the features of the course of the disease, it is worth noting rapidly developing hearing loss, constant nausea and dizziness.
Meniere's syndrome. Pathology of the inner ear, accompanied by noise and crackling in the ears.
Chronic diseases (otitis, eustachitis, otosclerosis).
Migraine.
Brain tumors with manifestations of epilepsy.

Why does it occur in animals?

In particular, in dogs, treatment of vestibular apparatus disorders is most often carried out due to injury to the auditory organ or damage. Due to the accumulation of fluid in the tympanic cavity, inflammation occurs, plus everything pathogenic microorganisms, penetrating the vestibular apparatus, negatively affect its cells. All this can lead to complete deafness of the animal.

Patient examination

In order to begin treatment with medications for disorders of the vestibular apparatus, it is necessary comprehensive diagnostics. The patient receives a referral for research procedures from an otolaryngologist or neurologist, depending on the complaints and symptoms with which he sought help.

Most often, patients have to undergo examination, consisting of:

from CG of the brain;
nystagmography;
Ultrasound of the vessels of the neck and head;
radiography;
electrocochleography;
ophthalmography.

Posturography is another way to determine the cause of dysfunction of the vestibular organ. This test provides a graphical representation of the patient's center of gravity at rest or during physical activity. While the subject stands on a rotating platform, sensors connected to him record the slightest changes in the nervous system and study his reaction.

Vestibular gymnastics

Treatment of vestibular disorders is based on creating an individual exercise plan. The training is a set of gymnastic exercises tailored to individual characteristics every organism. It is advisable to perform them regularly for fifteen minutes. Ideally, you need to train at least twice a day. The pace of exercise should be increased gradually.

First exercise. Smoothly move your gaze from bottom to top, then from left to right. At the same time, it is important to ensure that the head remains motionless and increase the pace of movements.
Second exercise. Perform 25 bends in one direction and the other, forward and backward. Repeat the complex again, but with your eyes closed.
Third exercise. In a sitting position, perform 10 shrugs, then spread your arms in different directions. Repeat for a minute.
Fourth exercise. For a minute, throw a rubber ball up with one hand and catch it with the other. It is important that the toy flies above eye level; you cannot take your eyes off it.
Fifth exercise. Walking around the room with your eyes closed. In the absence of symptoms of a vestibular organ disorder, you can complicate the training by passing various kinds of obstacles.

Treatment with tablets

Drug therapy is an equally important component for recovery from disorders of the vestibular system. Drug treatment - quick and effective method stimulation of receptors and elimination characteristic symptoms. IN medical practice The following two remedies are most often used.

"Vestibo"

The first drug belongs to the group of histaminomimetics. Active ingredient improves the drug cerebral circulation and normalizes signal transmission along the vestibular nerve. "Vestibo" does an excellent job of blocking the vomiting centers, so these tablets are excellent at eliminating nausea. The course of treatment is 1 month, drink 1 tablet in the morning and evening.

"Relanium"

This is a representative of the benzodiazepine series of medications. It works in a similar way. After the first doses, patients’ nausea and dizziness disappear. However, the disadvantage of this medicine is its ability to cause addiction. If there are disorders of the vestibular system, treatment with these tablets is prescribed by a doctor. You cannot buy the drug at a pharmacy without an official prescription. The course of therapy is no more than two weeks.

Alternative medicines from traditional healers

It is worth noting one more direction in the treatment of vestibular disorders. Folk remedies are often used to combat specific symptoms of pathology. Particularly popular among patient adherents alternative treatment The following recipes are used:

You can relieve nausea and overcome dizziness with the help of ginger mixed with mint, pumpkin seeds, dill, chamomile flowers, lemon zest and celery. All components are thoroughly mixed and poured with boiling water. For one glass of boiling water, use 1 tablespoon of the mixture.
Clover flowers are poured with alcohol and allowed to brew for a couple of weeks in a place protected from light. Afterwards the medicine is taken 10-15 drops every day on an empty stomach, washed down big amount water.
The method for preparing propolis tincture is similar to the previous recipe. Small softened pieces of propolis are poured with vodka and left in a dark place for 10-14 days. You need to take the medicine together with refined sugar: drop 20 drops onto a sugar cube in the morning and evening for 10 days.

If we approach the issue of treatment comprehensively, therapeutic effect will come soon. However, before using any medicine, you should definitely consult a doctor.

Vestibular apparatus (from Latin vestibulum - vestibule)

an organ that perceives changes in the position of the head and body in space and the direction of body movement in vertebrates and humans; part of the inner ear (See inner ear) . V. a. - complex receptor of the vestibular analyzer (See Analyzers). Structural basis of V. a. - a complex of accumulations of ciliated cells of the inner ear, endolymph, included in it limestone formations- otoliths (See Otoliths) and jelly-like cupules in the ampoules of the semicircular canals (See Semicircular canals). Two types of signals come from balance receptors: static (related to body position) and dynamic (related to acceleration). Both signals arise from mechanical stimulation of sensitive hairs by displacement of either otoliths (or cupules) or endolymph. Typically, the otolith is denser than the surrounding endolymph and is supported by sensory hairs. When the position of the body changes, the direction of the force acting from the otolith on the sensitive hairs changes. Studies on fish have shown that the effective irritating force acting on the sensitive epithelium is a component directed parallel to the surface of the epithelium (the so-called shear force). This is probably the reason for irritation of hair cells in other vertebrates. The irritating effect for the semicircular canals is the acceleration of movement of the entire body or head, acting in the plane of each canal. Due to the different inertia of the endolymph and cupula, upon acceleration, the cupula shifts, and the friction resistance in the thin channels serves as a damper (silencer) of the entire system. The oval sac (utriculus) plays a leading role in the perception of body position and is probably involved in the sensation of rotation. The round sac (sacculus) complements the oval one and is apparently necessary for the perception of vibrations (See Vibration).

Transfer of excitation to V. a. enters the brain via the vestibular branch auditory nerve. The centers of vestibular function are connected with the cerebellum, the nuclei of the oculomotor nerves and the centers of the autonomic nervous system. Higher cortical centers of V. a. located in the temporal region hemispheres brain. When irritating the receptors of V. a. a number of reflexes arise (changes in the tone of the muscles of the neck, torso and limbs), allowing one to maintain balance when changing body position. These reflexes are accompanied by eye twitching (see Nystagmus) and autonomic reactions. In humans, with severe irritation V. a. a symptom complex of motion sickness develops (dizziness, disturbances in cardiac activity, respiratory rhythm, nausea, vomiting), characteristic, for example, of seasickness. At frequent repetitions strong vestibular irritations, the reaction to them weakens. This is the basis of vestibular training, used in the physical training of sailors, pilots, astronauts, etc.

Training V. a. includes movements that irritate it (tilts, turns, jumps, exercises on a trampoline, crossbar, etc.), as well as repeated exposure to angular and linear accelerations on the body using rotating installations (centrifuges), swings, etc.

Lit.: Kislyakov V. A. and Orlov I. V., physiology of the vestibular system ( current state problems), in the collection: Questions of Physiology sensory systems, [V. 1], M.-L., 1966.

G. N. Simkin.

Big soviet encyclopedia. - M.: Soviet Encyclopedia. 1969-1978 .

See what “Vestibular apparatus” is in other dictionaries:

- (from Latin vestibulum vestibule, entrance), receptor apparatus located in the semicircular canals and internal sacs. ear; perceives changes in the position of the head and body in space and the direction of body movement in vertebrates. Presented sensitive... ... Biological encyclopedic dictionary

- (from the Latin vestibulum vestibule), a sensory organ in vertebrates and humans, perceiving changes in the position of the head and body in space, as well as the direction of movement. Located in the semicircular canals and sacs of the inner ear... Modern encyclopedia

- (from Latin vestibulum vestibule) a sensory organ in vertebrates and humans, perceiving changes in the position of the head and body in space, as well as the direction of movement. Located in the semicircular canals and sacs of the inner ear... Big encyclopedic Dictionary

- (balance organs), a system that provides mammals with the ability to maintain body position, counteracting the force of gravity, and to take into account changes in position when moving. The main organs of balance are located in the inner EAR - the UTERUS... ... Scientific and technical encyclopedic dictionary

VESTIBULAR APPARATUS- VESTIBULAR APPARATUS, see Inner ear... Big medical encyclopedia

- (lat. vestibulum vestibule), an organ that perceives changes in the position of the head and body in space and the direction of body movement in vertebrates and humans; part of the inner ear. Training the vestibular system in the elderly... ... Wikipedia

vestibular apparatus- vestibulinis aparatas statusas T sritis Kūno kultūra ir sportas apibrėžtis Kūno pusiausvyros organas, juntantis galvos judėjimą ir jos padėtį erdvėje. Anatomiškai priskiriamas prie vidinės ausies, nors su klausa beveik nieko bendro neturi. Yra… …Sporto terminų žodynas

VESTIBULAR APPARATUS- [from lat. apparatus] peripheral section of the vestibular analyzer; receptor apparatus located in the semicircular canals and sacs of the inner ear; ensures the perception of changes in the position of the head and body in space and the preservation... ... Psychomotorics: dictionary-reference book

What is the vestibular apparatus

The balance organs have a complex structural system and are responsible for several functions simultaneously. However, the main one among many others is the vestibular analyzer - a peripheral part of the system responsible for correct orientation in space. If there are any violations of the coordination system, a person loses the ability to maintain balance, navigate in space, perceive visual and audio information, and begins to feel dizzy.

Where is the organ of balance located?

If you open an anatomy textbook, you can see many photos of the structure of the balance system. However, most of these images do not provide a clear idea of where the vestibular apparatus is located in humans. If you imagine the structure of the skull from the inside, you will find that this organ is located in the inner ear. Around the balance apparatus are the semicircular canals, jelly-like endolymph and receptors of the vestibular analyzer.

How does the vestibular apparatus work?

The components of the system are three semicircular tubules - the utriculus and the otolithic organ - the sacculus. The channels are filled from the inside with a viscous liquid and have the shape of a shell, at the base of which there is a seal - jelly-like cupules. The sacculus is divided into two sacs: round and oval. Above them are small crystals of calcium carbonate - otoliths.

How does the balance organ work?

Although the vestibular system is located inside the bone box, this does not prevent it from collecting information not only about the position of the head, but also the arms, legs and other organs of the human body. The connection with the balance apparatus is especially secure at the nerve endings, gastrointestinal tract, and cardiovascular system. That is why, after being nervous and drinking too much coffee, many people feel dizzy.

Under the influence of attraction, the jelly-like liquid and the crystals in it will shift, affecting the balance receptors. The villi will immediately transmit information to the brain about changes in balance, and from there instructions will come to other organs: change muscle tone, move your leg or arm to the right, stand up straighter. It is very interesting that the vestibular system is configured only for horizontal movement of the body, so when going up in an elevator or flying on an airplane, many experience severe nausea, ringing in the ears, and dizziness.

Functions

In close proximity to the optic nerves and auricles, the balance system has nothing to do with either hearing or vision. The main function of the vestibular apparatus is to analyze changes in the position of the arms, legs, torso or head and transmit data to the brain. The organ quickly reacts to minimal external influence, detecting even the slightest changes in the gravitational field of the planet, helping to maintain balance in complete blindness or navigate in unfamiliar space.

Vestibular disorders

Due to the fact that all components of the balance apparatus act together, while it manages to collect information from other organs of the body, the slightest deviations in one direction or another can lead to disruptions in its functioning. Vestibular disorders cause serious problems in spatial orientation not only in humans, but also in animals and birds.

Reasons for violation

Symptoms

Doctors say that the main manifestations of the pathology are severe dizziness, loss of coordination and eye twitching. However, the patient is often haunted by other accompanying symptoms of vestibular system disorders:

attacks of nausea, sometimes vomiting;
changes in the color of the skin, mucous membranes of the mouth, and membranes of the eyes;
profuse sweating;
increased blood pressure;
tachycardia;
rapid breathing;
a decrease in body temperature below normal levels;
change in heart rate.

Diseases of the vestibular apparatus

Doctors count more than 80 different diseases that in one way or another may be associated with a violation of the balance apparatus. Examples include diseases of the endocrine system, traumatic brain injuries, cardiovascular pathologies, and serious mental disorders. At the same time, for all diseases of the vestibular system, doctors will have an explanation, a description of the symptoms and ways to check them.

Meniere's disease

This disease of the balance apparatus can be described using only four signs: dizziness, noise or congestion in the ears and hearing loss. The first three symptoms peak within a couple of minutes, gradually subsiding over several hours. The decrease in sound perception at an early stage is reversible. In some patients, Meniere's syndrome may be accompanied by a brief loss of consciousness or balance.

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo

This deviation can occur at any age, but most often affects the elderly. It is caused by infections, traumatic brain injuries or coronary heart disease, sometimes the source cannot be determined. In patients with this diagnosis, a feeling of dizziness, loss of balance and other symptoms appear with every turn, tilt of the torso or head.

Basilar migraine

The syndrome is short-lived and usually affects patients under 20 years of age. Basilar or teenage migraine is especially common in girls entering the period of formation of the menstrual cycle. Headaches, dizziness and nausea in a teenager appear suddenly and in rare cases the development lasts more than one hour.

Vestibular neuritis

The disease is possible at any age. Often its appearance is accompanied by an acute respiratory infection, so doctors attribute the disease to a viral nature. Neuritis of the vestibular apparatus is accompanied by severe rotational dizziness, vomiting and nausea, and twitching of the eyelid. With the right treatment, the deviation goes away in 3-4 days, but full recovery will take up to several weeks.

What to do if the vestibular system is damaged

When the balance organs fail and signal this in every possible way, a person should first undergo an examination and visit an ENT doctor’s office. Mandatory diagnostics include:

special hardware tests for audiometry and electronystagmography;
CT or MRI of the brain;
blood analysis;
ultrasound examination of blood flow;
vestibular tests.

Training

Sit on a chair or armchair. Extend your index finger forward and fix your gaze on it. Start turning your head in different directions, gradually increasing the pace.
Next exercise: take two cards in your hands, straighten your elbows. It is necessary to alternately focus your gaze on one of the cards, while your head must remain motionless.
Stand up, spread your legs, and focus your gaze straight ahead. Start making circular movements with your body. First with a small amplitude, then with a large circle diameter.
All exercises for training the vestibular system should be performed daily with several approaches.

Treatment

If imbalances progress and other symptoms are added to the momentary dizziness, gymnastics will not help. Urgent medical treatment of vestibular vertigo is necessary. The choice of drug and method of therapy will depend on the reasons that caused this:

If damage to the balance apparatus is caused by peripheral polyneuropathy, then diabetes must be treated.
For paroxysmal vertigo, the ENT specialist chooses a special technique: he turns the patient in a certain sequence, the crystals change location, after which an improvement in well-being occurs.
Treatment of dizziness with Meniere's syndrome cannot be done without effective antihistamines and antiemetic drugs. In addition, the patient necessarily needs nutritional correction and a special diet.
Migraines in children can be treated with aspirin, ergotamine, beta blockers and antidepressants.
If disorders appear at retirement age, the doctor may suggest implanting implants that will restore the lost balance.

Folk remedies for dizziness

Along with drug therapy and preventive gymnastics, it is possible to treat the vestibular apparatus with folk remedies. For example, make ginger tincture:

Take 4 tsp. grated ginger root, mix with a pinch of dried mint, fennel seeds, pumpkin seeds, chamomile flowers and orange zest.
Pour hot water over the herbal mixture, let it brew for 15 minutes and drink if you feel dizzy, lose balance, or other signs of systemic disorders.

In case of persistent dysfunction of the balance apparatus, a balm made from three tinctures helps strengthen a weak body at home:

For half a liter of alcohol, take 4 tablespoons of clover inflorescences. Wrap the container with foil and leave for 2 weeks.
For the same amount of alcohol, take 5 tbsp. l. Dioscorea root. Insist as in the previous recipe.
Fill the propolis with alcohol and put it in a dark place. After 10 days, strain the tincture.
Mix all three components and take 1 tbsp three times after meals. l.