Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery
Eardrum Perforation
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Overview
An eardrum perforation, or a ruptured eardrum, is a hole in the tissue that separates the ear canal from the middle ear. It can be caused by a severe ear infection or injury to the ear.
6Common Symptoms
- Ear Pain
- Clear or bloody drainage from the ear
- Hearing loss
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Dizziness
- Vertigo
Diagnosis and Treatment
A visual inspection in most cases will confirm the perforation. Small perforations often heal on their own, however, larger and/or persistent perforations often need surgical repair. In general, for younger children who have persistent perforations, observation will be recommended first.
