The eardrum is a thin, cone-shaped piece of skin or membrane, less than half an inch wide that separates the ear canal from the middle ear. It is also known as the tympanic membrane. A perforation of the eardrum is a hole or rupture of the eardrum left behind due to an ear infection, surgery, trauma, or an explosion. A consequence of an eardrum perforation is usually some degree of hearing loss.
Causes of eardrum perforations
There are several ways a perforation of the eardrum occurs. The more common ones include ear infection, foreign object and trauma.
Ear infection: A middle ear infection is the primary cause of eardrum rupture. When an infection of the middle ear occurs it normally causes pressure to build up inside the middle ear cavity. As the pressure builds it pushes against the eardrum forcing it to stretch and expand. This usually results in the individual experiencing severe pain. When the pressure on the eardrum gets too great it causes the eardrum to rupture and pus begins to drain out the ear. The pain that was being experienced also subsides.
Foreign object: Another common cause of eardrum perforation is from foreign objects being inserted into the ear canal. This includes trying to clean the ears with Q-tips, hairpins and small pieces of sticks, as well as children poking tiny toys and other items into their ear canals. Perforations by foreign objects may even occur by bugs that somehow get into the ear canal.
Trauma: There are various types of trauma that can cause a perforation of the eardrum -- barotrauma, acoustic trauma, and head injury, blow or slap.
Barotrauma: This type of eardrum perforation occurs when the pressure inside the ear is not equal to the pressure outside the ear. Most people experience a change in air pressure when riding on an airplane and changes in altitude causes the pressure in the cabin to rise and fall. Others who scuba dive may also experience these same types of pressure changes. Severe cases of barotrauma may result in a rupturing of the eardrum.
Acoustic trauma: Results in a perforation of the eardrum may occur from sudden impact noises. Like when an individual is exposed to a close and abrupt loud burst of noise like an explosion, fireworks, gunshot, or even an unexpected burst of loud music.
Head injury, blow or slap: Any type of head injury, blow to the head, or slap to the ear can result in the eardrum rupturing.
Symptoms of a perforated eardrum
o Discomfort in the ear
o Sudden sharp ear pain
o Decrease in ear pain
o Ear drainage
o Tinnitus or ear noises
o Intermittent ear infections
o Facial weakness
o Dizziness
o Hearing loss
Treatment for perforated eardrum
In most cases a perforation of the eardrum will usually heal itself within three months. Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent an infection from occurring or to treat a current one. In the event the perforation does not heal on its own, an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist should be consulted to determine further treatment options which may include surgery to repair the hole in the eardrum.
Protecting the perforated ear
Once a perforation occurs in the eardrum, it is important to ensure that no water gets into the ear canal during the healing process. All water related activities like swimming and diving should be avoided. When showering, a shower cap or swim plugs should be used to prevent any water from entering the ear canal. The ear should also be protected from cold air and winds. And finally, avoid blowing your nose while the eardrum is healing.
Perforation prevention tips
o Do not insert anything into your ear to clean it. The ear is considered self-cleaning. Using things like Q-tips and hairpins is not only unnecessary, but can be dangerous to the delicate ear.
o If a foreign object gets stuck in your ear, have it safely removed by a medical professional.
o Have all ear infections treated immediately.
o Avoid loud impact noises and music.
The eardrum is a part of our intricate hearing system and is essential in our ability to hear precisely. If you suspect you have a perforation of the eardrum, seek medical attention.
o For further information on any hearing-related disorder, please contact Dr. Deborah Nubirth, doctor of audiology, in New Providence at Comprehensive Family Medical Clinic, Poinciana Drive at 356-2276 or 677-6627 or 351-7902 in Grand Bahama; or email dnubirth@yahoo.com.
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