Perforation Of The Eardrum

General Information on Perforation Of The Eardrum

A perforation is a hole inside the eardrum. The most common cause of eardrum perforation is a middle ear infection. A perforation in the eardrum can also be caused by a sudden change in pressure such as a slap, diving underwater, or while on an airplane. Objects placed in the ear, such as cotton swabs, can also cause perforation. An object that penetrates the eardrum can dislocate the chain of small bones that connect the eardrum to the inner ear. Pieces of the broken bones may penetrate the inner ear.

Symptoms of Perforation Of The Eardrum

Symptoms may include:
Sudden severe pain
Bleeding from the ear
Pus draining from the ear
Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
Hearing loss
Vertigo

Treatments For Perforation Of The Eardrum

Doctors diagnose eardrum perforation by examining the inside of the ear with an otoscope. Treatment includes keeping the ear dry. If the ear becomes infected, doctors may prescribe ear drops containing antibiotics. Most of the time, the eardrum heals without further treatment. If the eardrum does not heal, surgery may be needed.

Personal Experience

Perforation Of The Eardrum - personal experiences