Eardrum Perforation

Eardrum perforation, sometimes referred to as a ruptured ear drum, can result in hearing loss and put the middle ear at risk of infection. If eardrum perforation doesn’t heal on its own in a few weeks, seek treatment from neurotologist and otolaryngologist Ricardo Cristobal, MD, PhD, FACS, at Texas Ear Clinic in Fort Worth, Texas. Make an appointment today, or use the online tool to book an appointment and find out if you need a patch or surgical repair.

What is eardrum perforation?

Perforation of the eardrum describes a hole or tear in the thin tissue that separates the ear canal from the middle ear (eardrum). You may suffer the perforation because of:

• Middle ear infection, when pressure from fluid in the middle ear is too intense
• Barotrauma, when the middle ear and air pressure are out of balance, oftentimes with flying or deep diving
• Loud sounds or a blast
• Foreign objects placed in your ear that punctured the eardrum
• Severe head trauma

If you suspect eardrum perforation, schedule an appointment at Texas Ear Clinic. Dr. Cristobal can confirm your diagnosis and offer appropriate care to prevent hearing loss. 

When should I suspect eardrum perforation?

The symptoms of an eardrum perforation can mimic other ear or hearing problems. 

Signs of a possible eardrum perforation include: 

• Hearing loss
• Ear pain that eases quickly
• Bloody or pus-filled drainage from the ear
• Ringing in the ear, or tinnitus
• Spinning sensation, or vertigo
• Nausea or vomiting that can result from vertigo

If you experience these symptoms, see Dr. Cristobal as soon as possible. It’s important for him to confirm the diagnosis and determine the source of the symptoms. He can usually diagnose and demonstrate an eardrum perforation with a visual inspection using an ear endoscope with a camera connected to a screen. 

How do you treat eardrum perforation?

Most cases of eardrum perforation heal on their own within a few weeks. During this time, take care to keep your ear dry and refrain from cleaning the ears. Also, avoid blowing your nose because the pressure can cause further damage to the eardrum. 

Dr. Cristobal may prescribe antibiotic ear drops or oral antibiotics if he’s concerned you may have an infection.

If the eardrum perforation fails to heal on its own, Dr. Cristobal may seal it with a patch in a simple in-office procedure. If the patch doesn’t provide adequate healing, surgery may be required. Surgery usually involves applying a graft of your own tissue to close the eardrum hole. 

You go home the same day of surgery to recover. 

If you have signs of an eardrum perforation, contact Texas Ear Clinic today. Call the office or use this website to set up an appointment.