Perforated eardrum

Perforated eardrum or tympanic membrane perforation is a condition where the thin membrane separating the external ear from the middle ear, known as the tympanic membrane, is ruptured or punctured. This can result in hearing loss and can also make the ear more susceptible to infections.

Causes

Perforated eardrum can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Ear infections: These can cause a buildup of pressure in the middle ear, which can lead to a rupture of the tympanic membrane.
• Physical trauma: This can include a blow to the ear, a sudden change in air pressure, or inserting an object into the ear.
• Loud noises: Exposure to extremely loud noises, such as an explosion, can cause the eardrum to rupture.
• Barotrauma: This is damage to the ear due to a change in pressure, such as when flying or diving.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a perforated eardrum can include:

• Pain in the ear
• Hearing loss
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
• Vertigo (a sense of spinning)
• Otorrhea (discharge from the ear)

Diagnosis

A perforated eardrum can be diagnosed through a physical examination of the ear using an otoscope. In some cases, a tympanometry test may be used to measure the movement of the eardrum.

Treatment

Treatment for a perforated eardrum depends on the size and location of the perforation, as well as the patient's symptoms. In some cases, the eardrum may heal on its own without treatment. In other cases, treatment may include:

• Antibiotics to prevent or treat infection
• Pain medication to relieve discomfort
• Surgery to repair the perforation

See also

• Otitis media
• Tympanoplasty
• Myringotomy

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