Hello, I'm Dr. Smith, an otolaryngologist with over 20 years of experience. I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of ear, nose, and throat conditions, including eardrum perforations.

A perforated eardrum, also known as a ruptured eardrum, is a hole or tear in the thin membrane that separates the outer ear from the middle ear. This can happen due to various reasons, including:

* Ear infection: A buildup of pressure from an ear infection can cause the eardrum to rupture.
* Loud noises: Sudden, loud noises, such as explosions or gunshots, can create enough pressure to damage the eardrum.
* Trauma: A direct blow to the ear, such as from a slap or a fall, can also cause a perforation.
* Foreign objects: Inserting objects into the ear canal can damage the eardrum.
* Rapid changes in pressure: Changes in air pressure, such as those experienced during diving or flying, can sometimes lead to a perforated eardrum.

The healing time for a perforated eardrum varies depending on the size and location of the tear, as well as the underlying cause.

Small perforations often heal on their own within a few weeks. However, larger perforations or those caused by more severe trauma may require surgical repair.

Here's a general timeline for healing:

* Within the first few days: You may experience pain, ear drainage, and hearing loss.
* Within a few weeks: The eardrum typically starts to heal.
* Within a few months: Most small perforations will have healed completely.

**Here are some things you can do to help your eardrum heal:**

* Avoid blowing your nose: This can put pressure on the eardrum and slow down healing.
* Avoid getting water in your ear: This can also cause infection and delay healing.
* Keep your ear clean: Use a cotton swab to gently clean the outside of your ear, but avoid inserting anything into the ear canal.
* Take pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to manage pain.
* Use ear drops: Your doctor may prescribe ear drops to help prevent infection and promote healing.

**If you have a perforated eardrum, it's important to see your doctor right away.** They can examine your ear, determine the cause of the perforation, and recommend the best treatment options.

**If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:**

* Severe pain in your ear
* Fever
* Dizziness
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Drainage from your ear that is thick, yellow, or green

Remember, while a perforated eardrum can be a serious condition, it usually heals on its own. By following your doctor's instructions and taking proper care of your ear, you can help to ensure a full recovery.

read more >>

Typically, no specific treatment is needed for a ruptured eardrum; the vast majority of ruptured eardrums heal within three months. Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic -- either oral or in the form of eardrops -- to prevent an ear infection or treat an existing infection.read more >>