As a sensory system we are hardly aware of it. It does not enter consciousness as does vision, audition, somesthesis, olfaction and taste. Even though we are not usually aware of the sensations produced by the vestibular apparatus, the normal functioning of which is essential for motor coordination, eye movements and posture. Disease processes or malfunctions that affect the vestibular system can lead to dizziness, and nausea. Thus, it is only through disease that we are aware of vestibular sensations.
Vestibular sensation is carried by the vestibular portion of eighth nerve.
The vestibular labyrinth is part of the membranous labyrinth. Endolymph fills the vestibular labyrinth and perilymph surrounds it. Disruption of the flow of either the perilymph or the endolymph has serious consequences of labyrinthine functioning. In the vertical ducts, the kinocilium faces away from the utricle. In the horizontal ducts, the kinocilium faces the utricle.