What causes a bulging ear drum without infection?

There are several possible causes of a bulging ear drum without infection, including:

1. Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD): The Eustachian tube is a small canal that connects the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat. When the Eustachian tube is not functioning properly, it can cause pressure to build up in the middle ear, which can lead to a bulging eardrum. ETD can be caused by a variety of factors, such as allergies, colds, flu, and smoking.

2. Otitis media with effusion (OME): OME is a condition in which fluid builds up in the middle ear without an infection being present. OME can cause a bulging eardrum, as well as hearing loss and pain. OME is most common in children, but it can also occur in adults.

3. Perforated eardrum: A perforated eardrum is a hole in the eardrum. Perforated eardrums can be caused by a variety of factors, such as trauma, infection, and pressure changes. A perforated eardrum can cause a bulging eardrum, as well as hearing loss and pain.

4. Meniere's disease: Meniere's disease is a disorder of the inner ear that can cause a variety of symptoms, including bulging eardrums, hearing loss, tinnitus, and vertigo. Meniere's disease is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

5. Acoustic neuroma: An acoustic neuroma is a non-cancerous tumor that grows on the nerve that connects the ear to the brain. Acoustic neuromas can cause a variety of symptoms, including bulging eardrums, hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance problems.