Vertigone

A common malformation: Enlarged vestibular aqueduct syndrome (EVAS)

Since the inner ear is a pressure sensor, it is important to keep the pressures steady in the ear. This is a challenge because the ear bridges the space in the skull between the outside-the ear canal—and the inside, housing the brain. When you sneeze or strain, the pressure in the fluid around the brainContinue reading “A common malformation: Enlarged vestibular aqueduct syndrome (EVAS)”

The inner ear can be malformed

The inner ear is a delicate and complex structure, so it is critical that it be formed properly. Abnormalities in development arising prior to birth, called congenital malformations, can be associated with a complete absence of vestibular function from birth. Milder malformations can at first be silent, only to cause progressive or sudden losses ofContinue reading “The inner ear can be malformed”

Chiari malformations

Chiari malformations are distortions at the base of the brain that may be present at birth or can form throughout life. The cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls balance and coordination, sits just above the opening at the bottom the skull (the foramen magnum) through which the brainstem passes to the spinal cord. Continue reading “Chiari malformations”