Can otoliths fall out of the body?

Otoliths do not fall out of the body. Otoliths are particles of predominantly crystallized calcium carbonate, also known as bituminous sand, located in the membranous labyrinth of the inner ear. It is involved in the composition of the globus pallidus and ellipsoidal pallidus have the same structure, both have otolithic membrane, so the two are also collectively known as the otolithic organ. Its main function is to feel the linear acceleration, when the otolith is dislodged from the ellipsoid cystic spot, and with the change of head position, it induces recurrent episodes of transient vertigo and characteristic nystagmus as the manifestation of peripheral vestibular lesions, which is called otolithosis. It is often self-limiting and is referred to as benign vertigo. The most effective method of treatment is otolith repositioning, and when symptoms such as dizziness and balance disturbances are present after repositioning, medications to improve microcirculation in the inner ear, such as ginkgo biloba extract, may be given. Rarely, surgical treatment with semicircular canal occlusion is considered. Although the otolith will not fall out of the body, but its dislodgement also seriously affects people’s normal life, when there are symptoms of otolithosis, you should promptly consult a doctor for standardized medication and treatment.