The tympanic membrane is what we refer to as the eardrum. It separates the ear canal from the middle ear. It is around one centimeter in diameter and curves inward slightly to form a concave shape. The eardrum vibrates in response to sound, which helps us hear. It is full of nerves, however, and is very sensitive to pain caused by both sound and physical touch. The tympanic membrane functions perfectly when there is equal pressure on both sides of it. When this pressure changes on one side, perhaps due to high altitudes, this can obstruct hearing and even cause pain.

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