Welcome to the Ear, Nose, and Throat Studies Page
About Ear, Nose, and Throat
The ears, nose, and throat are often treated and studied together; a series of common pathways connect them, and some of their duties are related, such as speaking and hearing. Ears convert soundwaves in the air into electrical and chemical signals to the brain, and also help control balance. With each breath, the nose filters particulates out of the air and detects odors and scents. Air then passes through the throat, which contains the larynx, or voice box. The sensory function of these areas is valuable, but because of their sensitivity, they can become irritated or impaired easily: the nose and sinuses can become congested or infected; damage to ears can cause dizziness or a loss of hearing; and throat disorders disrupt speaking or swallowing. The common airways and passages between these organs can allow bacteria to move easily; an infection that starts in the sinuses could quickly travel to the throat or ears.
