What can happen if the eardrum does not heal on its own?
If your eardrum (tympanic membrane) is ruptured and it doesn’t heal on its own or even with medications in three to six months, some major complications can arise. These complications include:
- Hearing Loss- Either temporary or permanent hearing loss can occur if the perforated eardrum does not heal. The size and location of the tear will also impact the degree of hearing loss.
- Middle Ear Infection- Otitis media or middle ear infection happens as the bacteria get entry into the middle ear through the rupture. In case the infection reaches inside the middle ear, you will become more vulnerable to a recurrent or chronic infection that can lead to hearing loss.
- Middle Ear Cyst- Also known as cholesteatoma, a cyst may form in the middle ear due to the deposition of skin cells and other debris. Once a cyst starts to form, it creates an environment where bacteria and other proteins that can damage the middle ear bone can grow rapidly.
Consult An ENT Specialist to Repair the Ruptured Eardrum/Tympanic Membrane
If you have had symptoms like ear pain, hearing loss, etc. for quite some time, you should consult an ENT specialist. You can get in touch with us and schedule an appointment with any of our expert doctors. They will diagnose you thoroughly and suggest a viable treatment method that allows you to regain your hearing abilities.
If the medical treatments are not effective, the doctor will recommend eardrum patching or eardrum repair surgery (tympanoplasty) as required. Depending on the severity of the condition, the doctor will choose one of these methods and repair the eardrum hole safely.
To learn more about the procedures, you can get in touch with us and clear all your doubts and concerns with the help of our ENT specialists.
How to prevent the eardrum from rupturing?
If you want to make sure that the eardrum is protected and doesn’t get ruptured again, you’ll have to take some precautions. Here are some preventative measures that will ensure that you don’t have to face the same problem again.
- Be aware of the signs and symptoms of ear infections. The common signs include earache, fever, reduced hearing, etc. Whenever you notice these signs, be prompt to visit an ENT specialist and get proper treatment.
- Protect your ears while you are traveling through airplanes. If possible, avoid flying if you have a cold or active allergy that causes nasal or ear congestion. Or you can use pressure-equalizing earplugs, yawning, or chewing gum during takeoffs and landings. Also, make sure that you don’t fall asleep during the ascent and descent.
- Do not attempt to dig out the excess or hardened ear wax using foreign objects like a cotton swab, paper clip, or hairpin. These objects can easily puncture or tear up the tympanic membrane.
- Do not expose your ears to explosions or very loud noise. If your work profile involves producing explosive noises, wear protection to protect your ears from the noise.