Getty Images
Your Ears And Nose Get Bigger In Old Age (But Not Because They're Growing)
By:
Mel Kassel
Your ears and nose are getting longer every year.
August 01, 2019
Why does it seem like a person's ears and nose continue to grow until old age? Height doesn't change after puberty (well, if anything we get shorter as we age) but ears and noses are always lengthening. That's due to gravity, not actual growth.
As you age, gravity causes the cartilage in your ears and nose to break down and sag. This results in droopier, longer features. Studies have estimated that ears lengthen at a rate of about .22 millimeters per year. The growth appears in men and women, so it's just one of the many universal joys of getting older.
This article first appeared on Curiosity.com.
Next Up
There's a Reason Your Body Is Tired When Your Brain Is Fried
The mind-body connection is stronger than you think.
Why Do You Feel Butterflies in Your Stomach?
Turns out that nervous tickling sensation has a scientific explanation.
10 Ways to Hack Your Cooking with Chemistry
Knowing how cooking reactions happen can help you create some truly tasty dishes.
Does Your Body Really Replace Itself Every 7 Years?
The human body is constantly renewing itself.
What Getting Chills from Music Says About Your Brain
You may have a very special kind of brain if music hits you at the core.
Why Does It Hurt to Get Water Up Your Nose?
Not everyone feels pain when water enters their noise.
Whatever You Do, Don't Put Coffee Grounds in Your Garden
This popular soil additive may not be the best thing for your plants.
This Is Why Your Eyes Get Puffy When You Cry
Your eyes puff up due to the process of osmosis.
Here's How Little Exercise It Takes to Boost Your Mental Health
Exercise benefits more than just your physique.
This Is How Little Blue Light It Takes to Disturb Your Sleep
Improved sleep quality can help improve your mood.