Simple Guide to Perforated Eardrum Treatment and Related Conditions

What is a Perforated Eardrum?

A perforated eardrum, also known as a tympanic membrane perforation, is a hole in the eardrum. The eardrum is a thin membrane that separates the outer ear from the middle ear. It vibrates when sound waves hit it, and these vibrations are transmitted to the middle ear bones, which then transmit them to the inner ear.

A Simple Guide to Perforated Eardrum, Treatment and Related Conditions (A Simple Guide to Medical Conditions)

by Kenneth Kee

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Language	:	English
File size	:	386 KB
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Perforated eardrums can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Ear infections
• Trauma to the ear, such as a blow to the head or a foreign object in the ear
• Loud noises
• Sudden changes in pressure, such as when scuba diving or flying

Symptoms of a Perforated Eardrum

The symptoms of a perforated eardrum can vary depending on the size and location of the perforation. Small perforations may not cause any symptoms, while larger perforations can cause:

• Hearing loss
• Ear pain
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Dizziness
• Drainage from the ear

Diagnosis of a Perforated Eardrum

A perforated eardrum can be diagnosed by a physical examination of the ear. The doctor will use a otoscope, which is a lighted instrument that allows the doctor to see the inside of the ear. The doctor may also perform a tuning fork test to assess hearing loss.

Treatment for a Perforated Eardrum

The treatment for a perforated eardrum depends on the size and location of the perforation. Small perforations may heal on their own within a few weeks. Larger perforations may require surgery to repair the eardrum.

In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to help your perforated eardrum heal:

• Avoid getting water in your ear.
• Keep your ear clean and dry.
• Avoid loud noises.
• Do not insert anything into your ear.

Related Conditions

Perforated eardrums can be associated with a number of other conditions, including:

• Otitis media (middle ear infection)
• Mastoiditis (infection of the mastoid bone)
• Cholesteatoma (a growth of skin in the middle ear)
• Meningitis (infection of the meninges, the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord)

Perforated eardrums can be a serious condition, but they can usually be treated successfully. If you think you may have a perforated eardrum, it is important to see a doctor right away.

A Simple Guide to Perforated Eardrum, Treatment and Related Conditions (A Simple Guide to Medical Conditions)

by Kenneth Kee

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	386 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	77 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE