Week 10 : Vestibular

Question 1

define vertigo

Answer 1

any sensation of self motion that is not actually occurring. Usually described as the world spinning

Question 2

define disequilibrium/imbalance

Answer 2

feeling of instability while seated, standing or walking eg. veering while walking

Question 3

define dizziness

Answer 3

sensation of disturbed or impaired spatial orientation without a false sense of motion eg. light-headedness, faintness

Question 4

define gaze instability

Answer 4

poor visual acuity during head and body movements

Question 5

what is the role of the vestibular system

Answer 5

Provide the brain with fast accurate information on head movement and head position

Generate rapid oculomotor, postural and perceptual responses
This is enabled by specialised sensory regions within the membranous labyrinth of the inner ear

Question 6

anatomy of peripheral vestibular system

Answer 6

3 Semicircular Canals,
2 Otolith organs
Vestibular nerve
(originates as 8th cranial nerve: vestibulocochlear nerve)