To better understand vertigo, it helps to understand the anatomy of the inner ear.

The inner ear contains the semi-circular canals, which also contain fluid and hair cells. The hair cells in the semi-circular canals sense the position of the body and send this information to the brain. This structure allows the body to maintain balance and equilibrium.

Anatomy examples:

• Pinna: the cartilage and skin of the external ear
• Ear canal: passageway that leads to the eardrum
• Tympanic membrane: the eardrum
• Ossicles: three tiny bones that vibrate when sound waves strike the eardrum
• Inner ear, or labyrinth: includes the cochlea and semi-circular canals
• Cochlea: contains fluid and hair cells
• Semi-circular canals: contains fluid and hair cells