Eardrum Rupture (Tympanic Membrane Perforation)
What Is an Eardrum Rupture?
An eardrum rupture, also called a tympanic membrane perforation, is a tear or hole in the thin tissue that separates the ear canal from the middle ear. This can allow fluid or bacteria to enter the middle ear, leading to pain, drainage, or temporary hearing changes. Eardrum ruptures can occur from infection, trauma, sudden pressure changes, or loud noises.
Common Symptoms
People with a ruptured eardrum may experience:
- Sudden ear pain that may improve quickly
- Drainage from the ear, which can be clear, bloody, or pus-filled
- Hearing loss or a muffled sensation in the affected ear
- Ringing or buzzing in the ear (tinnitus)
- Dizziness or balance problems in some cases
If these symptoms occur, an ENT evaluation is important to assess the extent of the rupture and recommend proper care.
Medical Management
Many eardrum ruptures heal on their own within a few weeks. Management may include:
- Keeping the ear dry and avoiding water exposure
- Pain relievers to reduce discomfort
- Antibiotic ear drops if infection is present or to prevent infection
- Monitoring hearing and ear health
Our board-certified otolaryngologist may perform an examination with an otoscope to determine the size and location of the perforation and monitor healing over time.
Tympanoplasty
If the eardrum does not heal on its own or hearing loss persists, surgical repair may be recommended. Tympanoplasty uses a small graft to close the perforation and restore the barrier between the ear canal and middle ear.
This procedure improves hearing, protects the middle ear from future infections, and helps restore normal ear function. It is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, and most patients recover quickly, though full hearing improvement may take several weeks.
Protect Your Ear Health
A ruptured eardrum can be uncomfortable and affect hearing, but most heal naturally with proper care. At Joplin ENT, our board-certified otolaryngologist provides expert evaluation and treatment to promote healing and protect your ear health.
Your Health Deserves Expert ENT Care
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