An eardrum perforation is defined as a hole or rupture in the eardrum. Known medically as a tympanic membrane rupture, this tear occurs in the membrane separating your outer ear from your inner ear. A perforation can lead to a middle ear infection and possible hearing loss, though in many cases it will heal on its own without medical treatment.
The eardrum receives sound waves, and these waves are transmitted through the hearing bones to the inner ear. A perforation can allow bacteria to enter the middle ear, resulting in an ear infection (otitis media).
What Can Cause Eardrum Perforations?
Eardrum perforations are most often caused by infection, injury or Eustachian tube disorders. Middle ear infections cause a buildup of pressure that may result in a ruptured eardrum.
Injury or trauma to the ear or head can cause a perforation, as can a skull fracture or sudden loud noise, such as an explosion.
Inserting objects like bobby pins or Q-tips in the ear to clean wax can inadvertently cause a rupture as well. Chronic Eustachian tube problems can weaken the eardrum, making it more prone to perforation.
What Are the Symptoms of Eardrum Perforation?
Some people are completely unaware of a ruptured eardrum; there may be a complete lack of symptoms or only a feeling of general discomfort. Other times, people will experience either a sudden sharp pain in the ear; a discharge of fluid that may be bloody, clear or pus-like; a buzzing or ringing in the ear; partial or complete hearing loss in the affected ear; ear infection; facial weakness or dizziness.
How Are Eardrum Perforations Treated?
A doctor will examine your ears with an otoscope to visually identify a hole or tear in the eardrum. Because the majority of perforated eardrums heal on their own in a few months, no treatment may be needed other than antibiotics to prevent or treat infection. Nonprescription pain medication and a warm compress can help. Large perforations may require surgery. While the rupture is healing you’ll need to keep the ear dry, avoiding water as much as possible.
Call The Ear Institute Center for the Ear, Hearing, & Balance at 760-565-3900 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
