Tympanic Membrane Perforation

Tympanic membrane perforation, also known as a ruptured or perforated eardrum, is a tear or hole in the thin, cone-shaped membrane that separates the outer ear from the middle ear. The tympanic membrane, commonly referred to as the eardrum, plays a crucial role in hearing by vibrating in response to sound waves and transmitting these vibrations to the bones of the middle ear, which then relay the sound to the inner ear and ultimately the brain.

Symptoms

Symptoms of tympanic membrane perforation can vary depending on the cause and severity of the perforation. Common symptoms may include:

  • Ear pain

  • Hearing loss

  • Tinnitus

  • Ear drainage

  • Vertigo or dizziness

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Fullness or pressure in the ear

Causes

Tympanic membrane perforation, or a ruptured eardrum, can result from various factors. Some common causes include:

Infection: Middle ear infections (otitis media) can lead to a buildup of pus and pressure behind the eardrum, causing it to rupture.

Trauma: Direct injury to the ear can cause perforation. This might involve inserting foreign objects (such as cotton swabs, hairpins, or pencils) into the ear canal, a forceful impact to the ear (e.g., a slap or a blow), or an object penetrating the eardrum.

Barotrauma: Rapid changes in air pressure, often experienced during air travel, scuba diving, or exposure to a blast or explosion, can cause an imbalance in pressure between the middle and outer ear, resulting in a ruptured eardrum.

Loud noise exposure: Extremely loud sounds, such as those from explosions, gunfire, or loud music, can generate enough sound pressure to damage or perforate the eardrum.

Head injury: Severe head trauma, such as from a car accident or a fall, can damage the bones in the middle ear, leading to a perforated eardrum.

Chronic ear infections: Repeated or long-lasting ear infections can weaken the eardrum over time, making it more susceptible to rupture.

Medical procedures: Some ear-related procedures, like ear tube placement or removal, can inadvertently cause damage to the eardrum.

Treatment
Options

Treatment options for tympanic membrane perforation (ruptured eardrum) depend on the cause, size, and severity of the perforation, as well as any associated symptoms or complications. Some common treatment options include:

Observation: In many cases, small perforations can heal on their own within a few weeks without any specific treatment. A healthcare professional may recommend monitoring the healing process and avoiding water or foreign objects in the ear.

Medications: If the perforation is due to an infection, a healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics (oral or ear drops) to treat the infection. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and inflammation associated with the perforation.

Ear protection: To prevent further damage or infection, it's essential to keep the ear dry and clean. Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal, and use a waterproof earplug or a cotton ball coated with petroleum jelly when showering or bathing.

Patching: For larger or non-healing perforations, a healthcare provider may apply a patch made of a special paper or gel to promote healing. This procedure, typically done in a doctor's office, may need to be repeated multiple times before the perforation fully heals.

Surgery: If the perforation does not heal on its own or with patching, surgery may be necessary.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you are suffering from Tympanic Membrane Perforation, the first step towards feeling better is to schedule an evaluation with an experienced ear, nose and throat doctor. Board certified physicians with Sensa Health have extensive experience diagnosing and treating a wide variety of ear conditions. Call our office at 213-267-2256 to schedule an appointment today.