Eardrum Perforation Questions and Answers

If you have suffered a sudden change in your hearing accompanied by other uncomfortable symptoms, you might need to hone your knowledge about eardrum perforations, from their possible causes to useful tips for recuperation and prevention. Start by checking out the following perforated eardrum questions and answers.

The eardrum consists of a thin disc of tissue that separates the outer ear from the middle ear. This membrane vibrates in response to sound waves, with the vibrations passing to small bones, inner fluid, and finally the hair cells that send sound signals to the brain. Trauma to the eardrum can interfere with this chain of events.

Any sudden change in air pressure between the outer ear and the middle ear can rupture the eardrum's delicate membrane, a problem called barotrauma. A sharp blow to the ear or powerful explosion can spike outer ear pressure sharply enough to damage the eardrum. Airplane cabin pressure changes can also injure the eardrums.

Foreign objects that enter the ear, even blunt ones, can easily pierce the eardrum without much application of pressure. For this reason, ear doctors urge people never to explore their ear canals or try to remove earwax with cotton swabs, plastic scoops, or other devices.

In addition to traumatic injuries, illness can cause an eardrum to perforate. In fact, the majority of reported eardrum perforations stem from ear infections, especially in cases involving children. Fluid pressure accumulates in the middle ear until the pressure breaks the eardrum.

Other conditions that block the eustachian tubes can produce enough air pressure to rupture the eardrums. Inflammation in these tubes, which connect the ears to the throat, can prevent the tubes from opening in response to pressure changes. 

Symptoms of a perforated eardrum usually start with a sudden (if temporary) earache accompanied by itching inside the ear. You will probably experience some degree of hearing loss as well. Some individuals with perforated eardrums develop a ringing, roaring, or hissing sound in the affected ear, an issue called tinnitus.

If your eardrum ruptures due to a middle ear infection, you may have a fever or notice fluid draining from the affected ear. An acute pressure change or damage from a foreign object can cause the injured eardrum to bleed.

ENT specialists can easily diagnose a perforated eardrum simply by examining the eardrum with an illuminated scope. Other diagnostic steps may include hearing tests and checks for signs of an infection. Antibiotics and other medications can help get an ear infection under control and ease earache pain.

Most perforated eardrums will repair themselves over time, with no need for treatment apart from over-the-counter pain relievers and soothing warm compresses. However, if you've suffered an especially large or destructive perforation, your ENT might recommend surgery to fix the damage and promote optimal recovery.

You can minimize the risk of a perforated eardrum by anticipating and compensating for changes in air pressure. For instance, chew gum or insert earplugs when flying, and avoid flying if you suffer from an ear infection. Keep those earplugs handy whenever you anticipate potential damage from sudden loud sounds.

You can also prevent eardrum perforation by practicing smart self-care. Consider plugging your ears before you shower or swim to help keep water out of your ear canals. Seek immediate treatment for ear or upper respiratory infections. And use safe earwax cleaning procedures recommended by professionals.

Wilmington Ear Nose & Throat MD can check your ears for a perforated eardrum or any other ear disorder that affects comfort and hearing. Contact our ENT office today to schedule an evaluation.