Is an opening in the tympanic membrane (eardrum).

Causes

The tympanic membrane (eardrum) separates the external ear, middle ear and vibrates when sound waves strike, beginning the process that converts sound waves into nerve impulses that travel to the brain. When the eardrum is damaged, the hearing process is interrupted.

The eardrum also acts as a barrier to keep outside material, such as bacteria from entering the middle ear, but when it is perforated, bacteria can easily travel to the middle ear, causing an infection.

Damage to the eardrum can occur from acoustic trauma such as direct injury or barotrauma (pressure-induced damage). Inserting cotton-tipped swabs or small objects into the ear to clean them sometimes causes a perforation of the eardrum. Foreign objects in the ear are another cause of perforated eardrum.

Ear infections may cause a ruptured eardrum as the pressure increases in middle ear fluid and, conversely, a ruptured eardrum can cause ear infections because the eardrum is no longer intact, and bacteria can penetrate in the middle ear.

Symptoms

* Discharge from the ear (may be clear, pus or blood)
* Noise / buzzing in the ear
* Earache or ear
or it can be severe and increasing
or there may be a sudden decrease in ear pain followed by a secretion of this
* Facial weakness or dizziness (in more severe cases)
* Hearing loss in the affected ear (may not be a loss of hearing)

Exams and Tests

The doctor will examine the ear with an instrument called an otoscope. If the eardrum is perforated, the doctor will see an opening in it and may even see the bones of the middle ear.

It is sometimes difficult for the doctor to see the eardrum because of drainage from the ear (pus).

Audiology testing can measure the degree of hearing loss.

Treatment

A ruptured or perforated eardrum usually heals by itself within two months. The goals of treatment are to relieve pain and prevent infection.

Antibiotics may be used (oral or ear drops) to prevent infection or to treat an existing infection. Analgesics (pain relievers), including prescription medicines can be used to relieve pain.

Sometimes the doctor may place a patch on the eardrum while it heals. Surgical repair of the eardrum may be needed if it does not heal on its own (tympanoplasty).

Applying heat to the ear may help relieve discomfort. Keep the ear clean and dry while healing. Must be put cotton balls in the ear while showering or shampooing to prevent water from penetrating inside this body.

Forecast

A ruptured or perforated eardrum may be uncomfortable, but it usually heals by itself within two months. Any hearing loss is usually temporary.
Possible complications

* Ear infection (otitis media)
* Hearing loss (deafness) permanent
* Spread of infection to the bone behind the ear (mastoiditis)

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your doctor if:

* You have symptoms of a ruptured or perforated eardrum.
* He was diagnosed with a ruptured eardrum, and symptoms last more than two months despite medical treatment.
* He was diagnosed with a ruptured eardrum and persistent fever, general ill feeling or hearing loss.

Prevention

Do not insert objects into the ear canal, even to clean and foreign objects should only be removed by a doctor. Have Promptly treat ear infections.
Alternative Names

Perforation of tympanic membrane perforation or rupture Eardrum perforated, Perforated eardrum