30/01/2024
What is a perforated Ear Drum? π
β’ A perforated Ear Drum is where a hole or tear occurs in the Tympanic Membrane within the ear, usually due to trauma, a middle ear infection or sudden pressure like a loud bang π₯
What does the Ear Drum do?
β’ The Ear Drum (Tympanic Membrane) is a thin layer of tissue that separates the outside and inside of the ear. It is also responsible for absorbing sound vibrations and passing these to the tiny bones inside your ear so you can hear! π΅
What symptoms would I have if I perforated my Ear Drum? π©Ί
β’ Hearing Loss
β’ Tinnitus / Ringing in your ear
β’ Earache / Pain around your ear
β’ Discharge / Fluid / Pus leaking from your ear
β’ Itching
β’ Dizziness or vertigo
β’ Fever
Do I need treatment if my Ear Drum perforates? π
β’ Generally, a perforated Ear Drum will heal on its own within 2-3 months, creating a new membrane.
β’ Often this is caused by an infection, so your GP may prescribe you some antibiotics to clear up the infection.
β’ Occasionally, surgery is needed to repair the Ear Drum if it does not heal on its own, or other symptoms such as hearing loss have not returned to normal.
If you are concerned about any of the signs or symptoms listed above, get in touch with your GP or request a Consultation with a ClearWave UK Practitioner to check your ear health π¦»