otoacoustic emissions

Otoacoustic emissions are faint sounds generated by the inner ear (cochlea) when it processes sound. They occur naturally as a byproduct of the ear's ability to amplify and differentiate sounds, especially from tiny hairs (hair cells) that detect vibrations. These emissions can be measured with a special probe placed in the ear and are useful for evaluating hearing health, particularly in newborns and individuals who cannot communicate their hearing experience. Essentially, otoacoustic emissions are like the ear's own echoes, indicating that the inner ear is functioning properly.