Eardrum perforation refers to rupturing of the eardrum. Human ear is a sensitive organ formed by two parts: the inner and outer ear separated by a thin layer of eardrum. Eardrum protects the inner par..
Eardrum perforation refers to rupturing of the eardrum. Human ear is a sensitive organ formed by two parts: the inner and outer ear separated by a thin layer of eardrum. Eardrum protects the inner part of the ear from bacterial infections and water. Its main function is to convert vibrating sound waves into nerve impulses, which further travel to the human brain and convey sound. Eardrum is popularly known as the tympanic membrane. Eardrum rupture or perforation can occur due to many reasons. The most common being ear infections. When the middle layer of ear is infected, pressure starts building, which then pushes against the eardrum and may cause it to perforate. Eardrum perforation is accompanied by sudden pain and pressure, developed due to middle ear infection.
The main symptom of a perforated eardrum is loss of hearing power. The severity, however, may vary depending on the size of the hole. People may show following symptoms of middle ear infection:
- Sudden pain or discomfort in the ear.
- Blood or pus-filled discharge from the ear.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Noise in the ear similar to buzzing.
- Partial or complete hearing loss.
Ear drum perforation may be due to a number of factors:
- Ear infection: In case of infection, fluids build-up behind the eardrum causing pain and pressure. This pressure causes rupturing. After perforation, the pressure releases resulting in flow of fluids out of the ear.
- Barotrauma: The stress is exerted on the eardrum due to pressure imbalance (inside and outside the ear, majorly in air travel). If this pressure is intense, eardrum can rupture.
- Acoustic trauma: A loud sound or blast can cause a rupture.
- Inserting sharp foreign objects in ear.
- Fatal head injuries such as skull fracture.
Major risk factors are:
- Ear injury.
- Ear trauma.
- Scuba diving.
- Loud noise.
- Air travelling.
Following are the preventive measures for Eardrum perforation:
- Get your ear treated in case of ear infection.
- Do not put sharp objects in your ear.
- Guard your ears against loud noise.
- Guard your ears against pressure changes during flight or scuba diving.
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Our superspecialist doctors provide the highest quality of care through a team-based, doctor-led model. Trained at some of the world's most renowned i..... Continue Reading
