Ruptured eardrum Health Article

Treatment

A ruptured or perforated eardrum usually heals by itself within 2 months. The goal of treatment is to relieve pain and prevent infection.

Antibiotics (oral or eardrops) may be used to prevent infection or to treat an existing infection. Analgesics (pain killers), including over-the-counter medications, may be used to relieve pain.

Occasionally, the health care provider may place a patch over the eardrum while it heals. Surgical repair of the eardrum may be needed, if the eardrum does not heal on its own (tympanoplasty).

Warmth to the ear may help relieve discomfort. Keep the ear clean and dry while healing. Cotton balls should be placed in the ear while showering or shampooing to prevent water entering the ear.

Expectations (prognosis)

A ruptured or perforated eardrum may be uncomfortable, but it usually heals by itself within 2 months. Any hearing loss is usually temporary.

Complications

• Ear infection (otitis media)
• Permanent hearing loss
• Spread of infection to the bone behind the ear (mastoiditis)

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if you:

• Have symptoms of a ruptured or perforated eardrum
• Are diagnosed with a ruptured eardrum, and symptoms last longer than 2 months despite medical treatment
• Are diagnosed with a ruptured eardrum and develop a persistent fever, general ill feeling, or hearing loss

Prevention

Do not insert objects into the ear canal, even to clean it. Foreign objects should only be removed by a health care provider. Have ear infections treated promptly.

References

Bauer CA, Jenkins HA. Otologic Symptoms and Syndromes. In: Cummings CW, Flint PW, Haughey BH, Robbins KT, Thomas JR, eds. Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Mosby Elsevier; 2005: chap 126.

Ramakrishnan K, Sparks RA, Berryhill WE. Diagnosis and treatment of otitis media. Am Fam Physician. 2007; 76(11):1650-8.