Ruptured Eardrum

Understanding Ruptured Eardrum Symptoms

Ruptured eardrum symptoms vary from person to person. Some people feel severe pain, while others may not notice any discomfort. For those with pain, it often starts suddenly and may feel like sharp stabs. However, it usually decreases quickly once the eardrum ruptures and pressure releases. Other common eardrum rupture signs include:

• Clear, pus-filled, or bloody discharge from the ear
• Hearing loss in the affected ear
• Ringing in the ear, or tinnitus
• A spinning sensation, or vertigo
• Nausea from vertigo
• Facial weakness on the affected side

What Causes a Ruptured Eardrum?

Several factors can lead to a perforated eardrum. Understanding these causes can help you prevent this injury.

• Ear Infections – Middle ear infections are the most common cause of ruptured eardrums. When fluid builds up behind the eardrum, it creates pressure. If the pressure becomes too great, the eardrum can tear.
• Sudden Pressure Changes – Quick changes in air pressure can damage your eardrum. This might happen when you’re flying, scuba diving, or driving in the mountains.
• Direct Injury – Poking your ear with cotton swabs, hairpins, or other objects can puncture the eardrum. Even cleaning your ears too aggressively can cause damage.
• Loud Noises – Very loud sounds, like explosions or gunshots, can rupture eardrums. This type of injury is called acoustic trauma.
• Head Trauma – Severe head injuries, like those from car accidents or sports, can damage the eardrum.

When to See an Otolaryngologist

You should see an ear specialist if you have any ruptured eardrum symptoms. Getting prompt medical care is essential for proper healing and preventing complications. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve
• Discharge from your ear that lasts more than 24 hours
• Hearing loss
• Signs of infection, such as fever or increased pain
• Dizziness that doesn’t go away

How We Diagnose Perforated Eardrums

Our otolaryngologists will examine your ear using a special tool called an otoscope. This instrument has a light that allows the doctor to see inside your ear canal and look at your eardrum. During the exam, our doctors will look for tears or holes in the eardrum, signs of infection, fluid buildup, or other damage to the ear. Sometimes, the following additional tests may be necessary:

• Hearing tests to check how much hearing loss has occurred
• Tympanometry to measure how well the eardrum moves
• CT scans if there are signs of serious injury

At-Home Care

• Keep your ear dry
• Take over-the-counter pain medicine as needed
• Don’t use ear drops unless prescribed by your doctor

Medical Treatment

Your doctor may prescribe:

• Antibiotic ear drops to prevent infection
• Oral antibiotics if an infection is present
• Pain medication for severe discomfort

Surgical Options

The most common surgery is called tympanoplasty. During this procedure, a surgeon will use a small piece of tissue to patch the hole. Surgery may be needed if:

• The eardrum doesn’t heal after two months
• Hearing loss continues
• Chronic infections develop

• Treat ear infections promptly
• Never put objects in your ears
• Wear ear protection around loud noises

• Blow your nose gently, one nostril at a time
• Stay up-to-date on vaccinations to prevent infections
• See a doctor for persistent ear pain or discharge