You probably don’t think about your eardrum often, but it’s an important part of the body. In addition to helping us hear, it also protects the middle ear from water, bacteria and other foreign substances. A perforated eardrum can lead to hearing loss and a heightened risk of infection. If you’re experiencing a ruptured eardrum, our team at Puget Sound Ear Nose and Throatcan identify the next steps and help you navigate the road to recovery.
How Does the Eardrum Help Us Hear?
When sound waves reach the eardrum, it vibrates. This allows structures in the middle and inner ears to translate these sound waves into nerve impulses.
A perforation creates a hole in the tympanic membrane across the eardrum. Because this limits its ability to vibrate, it can result in hearing loss.
What Causes a Perforated Eardrum?
The eardrum can perforate because of:
- Infection: Pressure from middle ear infections can lead to a ruptured eardrum.
- Injury: This can range from head trauma to inserting foreign objects in the ear.
- Eustachian tube disorders: Chronic Eustachian tube problems can weaken the eardrum, making it more prone to perforation.
What Are the Symptoms of a Ruptured Eardrum?
- A sudden sharp pain in the ear
- A discharge of fluid that may be bloody, clear or pus-like
- A buzzing or ringing in the ear
- Partial or complete hearing loss in the affected ear
- Ear infection
- Facial weakness or dizziness
How Can I Reduce the Likelihood of a Perforated Eardrum?
A ruptured eardrum can be prevented by not putting objects in your ears, protecting your ears from loud noises and seeking treatment for middle ear infections.
When Should I Seek Treatment?
Get in touch with our team if you believe you have a ruptured eardrum. It may heal on its own, but our physician can determine what’s causing your symptoms and assess whether surgery would be beneficial.
If surgery is not needed, our provider can discuss home remedies to relieve your symptoms. Potential options include:
- Nonprescription pain medicine
- Gently pressing a warm cloth against the ear
- Keeping the ear dry
- Avoiding blowing your nose
A ruptured eardrum can be painful, but our team at Puget Sound Ear Nose and Throat can help provide relief. Treatment from our physicians will allow you to leave discomfort behind and better hear the world around you.
Call Puget Sound ENT for more information or to schedule an appointment.