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What Is a Ruptured Ear Drum?

The eardrum is a thin membrane located deep inside the ear. It's sometimes referred to as the tympanic membrane. It helps protect the inner ear and assists in transmitting sound. A ruptured eardrum is a hole or tear in the membrane. There are several causes of a ruptured eardrum and treatment may depend on the size of the puncture or tear.

  1. Causes

    • According to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, the most common causes of a ruptured eardrum include an ear infection and trauma to the ear or side of the head. During an ear infection, fluid can buildup and pressure increases, causing the rupture. Changes in air pressure, such as during scuba diving or flying in an airplane, can also cause the eardrum to rupture. Other causes include puncture of the membrane from extremely loud noises or from an object, such as a cotton swab, being inserted too far into the ear canal.

    Symptoms

    • Not everyone who develops a ruptured eardrum experiences symptoms. According to the University of Michigan Health Systems, when symptoms do occur they may include sudden pain. In some people who have an ear infection, after the rupture the pressure and pain decreases. There may also be hearing loss or ringing in the ear. Additional symptoms may include dizziness, which may cause nausea. Blood or fluid may also drain from the ear and the fluid may contain pus.

    Diagnosis

    • A diagnosis of a ruptured eardrum may be made through an ear exam. The doctor will view the ear canal with an otoscope and do a hearing test. The doctor may use a device called a tympanometry to measure how the eardrum responds to a change in air pressure. If fluid is coming out of the ear, it may be analyzed to determine if bacteria is present.

    Treatment

    • To prevent infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. According to the Mayo Clinic, the majority of people with a ruptured eardrum don't need additional treatment. After a couple of weeks, if the eardrum does not heal, an eardrum patch may be recommended. A patch is placed over the tear in the eardrum. In addition, a chemical is applied which stimulates healing. If a patch does not work, surgery may be done. A small piece of the patient's skin is transferred and grafted over the tear.

    Prevention

    • Getting treatment for ear infections may help reduce the likelihood of an infection leading to a ruptured eardrum. Even out the pressure inside the ear when flying, especially during takeoff and landing, by yawning. Use earplugs around extremely loud noises, such as machinery at work. Don't put objects, such as hairpins, into the ear canal to clean it.

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