Ruptured or perforated eardrum

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Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention

Ruptured or perforated eardrum

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

Antibiotics may be used to prevent infection or to treat an existing infection. Analgesics, 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.

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

• Permanent hearing loss
• Ear infection (otitis media)

Call your health care provider if:

• You have symptoms of a ruptured or perforated eardrum.
• You are diagnosed with a ruptured eardrum, and symptoms last longer than 2 months in spite of medical treatment.
• You are diagnosed with a ruptured eardrum, and you develop persistent fever, general ill feeling, or hearing loss.

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