Tympanic Membrane and Thyroid Gland Using the South University Online Library or the Internet, research the tympanic membrane and the thyroid gland. Based on your findings, create a 5- to 6-page Microsoft Word document that includes: Support your responses with examples. On a separate references page, cite all sources using APA format. Submission Details Name your document SU_NSG3012_W2_A2_LastName_FirstInitial.doc.
Tympanic Membrane and Thyroid Gland
Introduction
The human body consists of various organs and systems that work in harmony to maintain homeostasis. Two important structures within the body are the tympanic membrane, located in the ear, and the thyroid gland, situated in the neck. Both of these structures play significant roles in the overall functioning of the body. This paper aims to analyze and provide an in-depth understanding of the tympanic membrane and the thyroid gland through a review of relevant literature.
Tympanic Membrane
The tympanic membrane, commonly known as the eardrum, is a thin, cone-shaped structure located at the end of the ear canal. It separates the external ear from the middle ear and serves as a barrier, protecting the delicate structures within the middle ear from external factors such as infections and trauma (Browning & Doyle, 2003). This crucial role makes the tympanic membrane an essential component of the auditory system.
Anatomy and Structure
The tympanic membrane consists of three layers: an outer layer of skin, a middle layer of connective tissue, and an inner layer of mucous membrane (Goodey, 2011). The outer layer is composed of stratified squamous epithelium, which is continuous with the skin of the external ear canal. The middle layer contains fibroblasts and fibrous tissue, giving the eardrum its strength and flexibility. The innermost layer is lined with mucous membrane, which helps to keep the membrane moist and maintain its integrity.
Physiology and Function
The primary function of the tympanic membrane is to transmit sound waves from the external ear to the middle ear. When sound waves enter the ear canal, they cause the tympanic membrane to vibrate (Shinohara & Homma, 2015). These vibrations are then transmitted to the ossicles of the middle ear, which amplify the sound and send it to the inner ear for processing.
In addition to its role in hearing, the tympanic membrane also plays a crucial role in equalizing air pressure on both sides of the eardrum. This is achieved through a small channel called the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the nasopharynx (Goodey, 2011). The Eustachian tube opens and closes to regulate air pressure, preventing discomfort and potential damage to the eardrum.
Conditions and Disorders
Several conditions and disorders can affect the tympanic membrane and its function. Acute otitis media, for example, is a common infection of the middle ear that often results from the spread of upper respiratory tract infections. This infection can cause inflammation and fluid buildup behind the tympanic membrane, leading to pain and temporary hearing loss (Browning & Doyle, 2003). Another condition, known as a perforated eardrum, occurs when the tympanic membrane develops a hole or tear, often due to trauma or infection. This can result in hearing loss, susceptibility to further infections, and the potential need for surgical repair.
Thyroid Gland
The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ located in the front of the neck, just below the larynx. It is an endocrine gland that produces and secretes hormones essential for regulating metabolism, growth, and development (Kopp, 2011). The thyroid gland is a vital component of the endocrine system and plays a significant role in maintaining overall health and well-being.
Anatomy and Structure
The thyroid gland consists of two lobes connected by a bridge of tissue known as the isthmus. Each lobe is approximately 4-6 centimeters long and is composed of numerous small, spherical structures called follicles (Kopp, 2011). These follicles are lined with specialized cells called follicular cells, which produce two vital hormones: triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). The thyroid gland also contains parafollicular cells that produce the hormone calcitonin, which regulates calcium levels in the body.