Ruptured eardrum

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Introduction Signs and symptoms Causes Risk factors When to seek medical advice

Screening and diagnosis Complications Treatment Prevention Self-care

Introduction

A ruptured eardrum is a tear or a hole in your eardrum (tympanic membrane), the thin membrane that separates your ear canal from your middle ear. This membrane vibrates when sound waves strike it, starting the process of converting sound waves into nerve impulses that travel to your brain. A ruptured eardrum (also called a perforated eardrum) interrupts the hearing process and may impair your hearing.

The eardrum also acts as a barrier to keep outside material, such as bacteria, from entering your middle ear. When you have a ruptured eardrum, bacteria can more easily reach your middle ear and cause infection.

A variety of factors can cause a ruptured eardrum. These include a prior infection, injury and noise. Most ruptured eardrums heal within a few weeks without treatment. If the tear or hole in your eardrum doesn't heal by itself, you may need treatment.

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Signs and symptoms