A ruptured eardrum is a rip or hole in the skin-like tissue separating the ear canal and the middle ear. It is important to note that the eardrum receives vibrations from sound to enable hearing. Children are prone to end up with a ruptured eardrum.
Indications
A ruptured eardrum is often due to a middle ear infection. Once fluid builds up behind the eardrum, it results to discomfort and pain. The accumulation of fluid can create a small rupture of the eardrum which allows fluid to drain from the ear, usually appearing as pus.
In some cases, bleeding might also occur. A ruptured eardrum might also result to brief hearing loss due to the hole in the eardrum and drainage.
What are the causes?
Aside from an ear infection in the middle ear, other possible causes of a ruptured eardrum include:
- Injury to the side of the head from a sudden and strong blow to the head
- Skull fracture
- Loud noise from an explosion
- Inserting or pointing objects in the ear that moves deep down in the ear canal that might puncture the eardrum
- Abrupt changes in the air pressure
Management of a ruptured eardrum
Ear drops or oral medications might be given. In most instances, the healing occurs within 2 months. Generally, hearing loss might only last for a short time. Some rare complications of a rupture include:
- Long-term dizziness or vertigo
- Infection that can spread in the ear
It is vital to keep the ear dry from water and avoid swimming. Make sure that the ear is covered while taking a shower or bath. If the individual blows his/her nose, it should not be forceful since the pressure can produce pain and discomfort in the ears. In addition, the ear should be protected from exposure to cold air.
In case the eardrum does not recuperate after 2 months of monitoring, a specialist might perform myringoplasty which is a simple procedure to aid with the healing process. The procedure is utilized to fix small-sized tears in the eardrum and involves a small patch placed in or on the hole.