Tympanic Membrane (Ear Drum) Rupture
Description
Rupture of the eardrum also called the tympanic membrane. This membrane vibrates when sound waves enter the ear and is crucial to normal hearing. This membrane also separates the middle ear from the ear canal. Infection in the middle ear (otits media) can cause a rupture of the membrane. The membrane can also be damaged from a foreign body being inserted into the ear and during trauma.
Symptoms
Drainage from the ear (may be clear, pus, or bloody), ear noise/buzzing (tinnitus), earache, partial hearing loss.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Audiology to measure the functioning of the ear may be done.
Treatment
The rupture usually heals on its own. Therapy is directed at treating infection and treating pain. Treatment includes: antibiotics (oral or ear drops), pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn). Occasionally surgical repair of the ear drum is necessary. Patients with persistent holes in their ear drums who swim or suffer significant hearing loss are more likely to be offered surgery.
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