Ruptured Eardrum
(Acutely Perforated Tympanic Membrane) A ruptured eardrum, also known as an acutely perforated tympanic membrane, is a tear or hole in the thin membrane that separates the outer ear from the middle ear. This membrane plays a key role in hearing and protecting the middle ear from infection. A rupture can cause hearing loss, pain and increase the risk of middle ear infections.
What is a ruptured eardrum? The eardrum (tympanic membrane) is a thin, delicate tissue that vibrates when sound waves reach it, allowing sound to be transmitted to the middle ear. When this membrane is perforated, sound transmission is disrupted and bacteria or water may enter the middle ear, leading to infection.
What causes a ruptured eardrum?
A ruptured eardrum may occur due to:
- Ear infections that
cause pressure buildup behind the eardrum
- Sudden changes in air
pressure (barotrauma), such as during flying or diving
- Loud explosions or
acoustic trauma
- Direct injury to the
ear or head
- Improper insertion of
objects into the ear (such as cotton swabs)
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms vary depending on the size and cause of the perforation and may
include:
- Sudden ear pain that
may improve quickly
- Hearing loss in the
affected ear
- Ringing in the ear
(tinnitus)
- Fluid or pus draining
from the ear
- Dizziness or balance
problems
How is a ruptured eardrum
diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually made through:
- Medical history and
symptom review
- Physical examination
using an otoscope to visualize the eardrum
- Hearing tests
(audiometry) if hearing loss is suspected
How is a ruptured eardrum
treated?
Treatment depends on the size of the perforation and the underlying cause.
Many ruptured eardrums heal on their own within a few weeks.
Treatment options may include:
- Keeping the ear dry
and protected
- Antibiotic ear drops
or oral antibiotics if infection is present
- Pain management if
needed
If the eardrum does not heal naturally, medical procedures may be
recommended, such as:
- Eardrum patching
- Surgical repair
(tympanoplasty)
What are the possible
complications?
If left untreated, a ruptured eardrum may lead to:
- Chronic ear
infections
- Persistent hearing
loss
- Damage to middle ear
structures
What is the outlook?
Most cases of ruptured eardrum heal completely, especially when diagnosed
early and properly managed. Hearing usually returns to normal after healing.
Surgical repair has a high success rate when needed.