Eardrumsruptur

Eardrumsruptur, also known as perforation of the tympanic membrane, is a tear or rupture of the thin membrane that separates the external ear from the middle ear. The prevailing term in medical contexts is tympanic membrane perforation. The condition can range from small fissures to a complete break.

Causes include trauma, such as a blunt impact to the ear, a penetrating injury, or insertion of objects into the ear canal. Barotrauma from rapid pressure changes during air travel, scuba diving, or diving can crack the membrane. Acoustic trauma from a loud noise or blast, and middle ear infections that erode the membrane, are also common causes.

Symptoms often begin with sudden ear pain followed by drainage, which may be clear, bloody, or pus-filled. Hearing loss, tinnitus, and vertigo can accompany the rupture. Diagnosis is usually made by a clinician’s examination with an otoscope, which may reveal a visible perforation. Audiometry or tympanometry can help assess the degree of hearing loss and middle-ear function.

Treatment focuses on allowing healing and preventing infection. Many small perforations heal spontaneously within several weeks. Management includes keeping the ear dry, avoiding inserting objects, and using prescribed analgesics. Antibiotics are used if there is an infection or persistent drainage. Large or non-healing perforations may require surgical repair, such as myringoplasty or tympanoplasty.

Complications can include chronic otitis media, persistent hearing loss, or cholesteatoma. Prevention centers on prompt treatment of ear infections, careful ear care, and protection against ear trauma and sudden pressure changes.