A ruptured eardrum occurs when the thin membrane that separates the middle and outer ear (called the eardrum or tympanic membrane) is torn. Causes of a ruptured eardrum include:
- ear infections
- rapid changes in ambient pressure (called barotrauma)
- loud noises
- foreign objects like pencils or bobby pins inserted into the ear which can puncture the eardrum
- trauma
Ruptured eardrums can be painful at the time of rupture and are sometimes followed by a feeling of relief if the rupture is due to high pressure. Symptoms of a ruptured ear drum can include fluid draining from the ear, ear pain, sudden hearing loss or dizziness.
The treatment of a ruptured ear drum is not usually complicated. In most cases the ear drum will heal on its own. You shuld see a doctor however, especially if you suspect an ear infection or if hearing loss, or persistent drainage is involved. A doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen are often helpful for pain. In very severe (rare) cases the eardrum may have to be surgically repaired.
Source:
Medline Plus. Ruptured Eardrum. Accessed: July 21, 2010 from http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001038.htm">
