Ruptured Eardrum

A ruptured eardrum is a mild problem in most of the cases, but sometimes, it can become a serious issue if left unmanaged.

Ruptured eardrum

A ruptured eardrum, or perforated eardrum, occurs when there is a hole or a tear in the eardrum, which is a thin tissue that is located between the middle ear and the outer one.

Causes of ruptured eardrum

• The most common cause of a ruptured eardrum is an infection in the middle ear, which causes the buildup of fluids behind the eardrum and causes pressure that can cause a tear in it.
• Loud and explosive sounds.
• Injuries or traumas to the ear or head.
• Changes in the pressure, like during flying or diving.
• Sticking objects in the ear, like cotton swabs.

Symptoms of ruptured eardrum

• Ear pain that may come suddenly and go quickly.
• Pus or fluid with blood draining from the ear.
• Tinnitus.
• Sudden hearing loss.
• A perforated eardrum can lead to a hole that doesn’t close, recurrent infection, dizziness, balance issues, continuous hearing loss, and a skin growth that can damage the middle ear.

Diagnosis of ruptured eardrum

• Checking the ear.
• Hearing tests.

Treatment of ruptured eardrum

• A ruptured eardrum heals on its own in a lot of cases.
• In some cases, a perforated eardrum may require surgery to fix it.
• During recovery time, which may take from a few weeks to a few months, you have to avoid blowing the nose, not clean the ear, and keep the ear dry.