Summary about Disease
A ruptured eardrum (tympanic membrane perforation) is a hole or tear in the thin tissue that separates your ear canal from your middle ear. It can cause hearing loss, and make your middle ear vulnerable to infections. Many ruptured eardrums heal within a few weeks without treatment. But some require repair.
Symptoms
Ear pain that may subside quickly
Drainage from the ear that may be clear, pus-filled or bloody
Hearing loss
Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
Vertigo (a spinning sensation)
Nausea or vomiting that can result from vertigo
Causes
Middle ear infection (otitis media): Pressure from accumulated fluid can cause a rupture.
Barotrauma: Pressure imbalances, such as during air travel or scuba diving.
Loud noises or explosions: Acoustic trauma.
Foreign objects in the ear: Inserting objects like cotton swabs can cause a tear.
Head trauma: A skull fracture can damage the eardrum.
Medicine Used
Antibiotics: If the rupture is caused by an infection, or if an infection develops, antibiotics (oral or eardrops) may be prescribed.
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort.
Ear drops: May be prescribed to treat infection or keep the area clean.
Is Communicable
A ruptured eardrum itself is not communicable. However, if the rupture is caused by a middle ear infection (which can be communicable, depending on the causative agent), the underlying infection might be.
Precautions
Keep the ear dry: Use earplugs when showering or swimming.
Avoid blowing your nose forcefully: This can create pressure in the ear.
Treat infections promptly: Seek medical attention for ear infections.
Avoid inserting objects into the ear: Use cotton swabs only on the outer ear.
How long does an outbreak last?
A ruptured eardrum is not an "outbreak." The time it takes to heal varies. Most small perforations heal on their own within a few weeks to a couple of months. Larger perforations may require surgical repair. An infection may prolong the healing process.
How is it diagnosed?
Otoscopic examination: A doctor uses an otoscope (a lighted instrument) to look into the ear and visualize the eardrum.
Tympanometry: This test measures the movement of the eardrum.
Audiometry (Hearing test): Evaluates the extent of any hearing loss.
Lab Tests: If drainage is present, a sample may be sent to the lab to identify any bacteria or fungi.
Timeline of Symptoms
Immediately after rupture: Sharp ear pain, sometimes followed by a rapid decrease in pain.
Within hours: Possible drainage, hearing loss, tinnitus, vertigo.
Days/Weeks: Symptoms may improve as the eardrum heals. Infection can prolong or worsen symptoms.
Important Considerations
Most ruptured eardrums heal on their own.
Avoid self-treating ear problems.
Untreated infections can lead to complications.
Seek medical attention if you experience ear pain, drainage, hearing loss, or vertigo.
Surgery (tympanoplasty) is an option for persistent perforations.