Perforated Ear Drum
An eardrum perforation is a hole or a tear in the eardrum. These may be caused by infection or trauma. Middle ear infections can cause a buildup of pressure Result in rupture of the eardrum. Trauma to the eardrum may occur from injury to the tear of her head such as a skull fracture or sudden loud noise. Cleaning the ear with a Q-tip or other instrument may also result in a traumatic perforation if the instrument is placed too deeply into the ear canal. Perforations can also form as a result of ear tube placement.
Patients may experience symptoms of hearing loss, pain, Drainage or bleeding from the ear, ringing sound, or dizziness.
Most eardrum perforations will heal spontaneously and are managed conservatively with observation. Antibiotic eardrops may be prescribed and pain can be controlled with over-the-counter pain medication such as Tylenol or Motrin. If the perforation does not close on its own, surgery may be required to repair it.
Call ENT Northwest for more information and to schedule an appointment.
