A perforated eardrum can cause ear pain, muffled hearing, ringing, drainage, or frequent infections, making everyday conversations, work, and sleep harder than they should be. At Surgical Associates Northwest, our ENTs help you understand what’s happening and guide you toward treatments that protect your hearing and improve daily comfort.
Are Sounds Suddenly Muffled or Distorted?
Eardrum perforation is a hole or tear in the thin membrane that separates your ear canal from your middle ear. This membrane helps transmit sound and protects your ear from bacteria and water. When it’s damaged, often from infections, injury, or pressure changes, hearing can be affected, and infections may occur more easily. At Surgical Associates Northwest, our ENTs evaluate the cause and severity to recommend the right treatment.
Signs & Symptoms of Eardrum Perforation
When the eardrum is damaged, your ear often sends clear signals that something isn’t right. Symptoms can vary depending on the size and cause of the tear, but commonly include:
- Ear pain that may come and go
- Muffled or reduced hearing
- Ringing or buzzing in the ear
- Drainage of fluid or pus
- Frequent or recurring ear infections
- A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
- Dizziness or balance changes
What Causes Eardrum Perforation?
Your eardrum is a thin, delicate membrane that separates the outer ear from the middle ear and plays a key role in hearing and protection. Because it is so sensitive, it can tear or rupture when exposed to infection, pressure changes, or physical injury. Common causes of eardrum perforation include:
- Middle ear infections that cause pressure buildup
- Sudden changes in air pressure during flying or diving
- Inserting objects into the ear canal
- Loud blasts or sudden explosive noises
- Trauma to the ear or head
- Previous ear surgery or medical procedures
Your Eardrum Perforation Treatment Experience
Your care for eardrum perforation begins with a thorough, unrushed consultation. At Surgical Associates Northwest, our ENTs take the time to listen to your symptoms and review your history. They examine your ear and may perform simple hearing or diagnostic tests to understand the size, location, and cause of the tear. From there, you’ll get a clear explanation of what’s going on and whether your eardrum is likely to heal on its own or needs treatment.
If treatment is needed, many perforations can be addressed right in the office. The edges of the tear may be treated with a chemical to help stimulate healing, followed by placement of a small patch over the opening. You’ll receive clear instructions on keeping your ear dry as it heals, and the patch may be reapplied if needed. If the perforation doesn’t close, a minimally invasive outpatient surgical repair using a small tissue graft may be recommended.
Eardrum Perforation FAQs
Can a Perforated Eardrum Heal on Its Own?
Yes, many small eardrum perforations heal naturally over time. Your body can repair minor tears as long as the ear is protected from water, infections, and further trauma. During this period, you’ll be guided on how to keep your ear dry and what symptoms to watch for. Larger or long-standing perforations may need medical treatment to heal properly.
How Long Does It Take for a Perforated Eardrum to Heal?
Healing time varies based on the size and cause of the perforation. Small tears may heal within a few weeks, while others can take several months. If healing is slow or doesn’t occur, our ENTs may recommend additional treatment to prevent complications.
Will a Perforated Eardrum Affect Your Hearing Permanently?
In many cases, hearing returns to normal once the eardrum heals. Temporary hearing loss is common, especially with larger perforations. If the perforation is left untreated or recurrent infections occur, long-term hearing changes can develop, so prompt care is essential.
Is It Safe to Fly or Swim With a Perforated Eardrum?
Flying is often safe, but pressure changes can cause discomfort. Swimming and water exposure should be avoided unless you’re given specific instructions on protection. Keeping water out of the ear is essential to reduce the risk of infection while the eardrum heals.
Why Choose Surgical Associates Northwest?
Surgical Associates Northwest is a patient-centered ENT practice that treats you like family. Our ENTs take time to listen, explain your condition, and recommend treatment plans that make sense for your life. With excellent availability and a focus on minimally invasive treatments, we help you access simple, accessible care for a perforated eardrum. If you’re dealing with an eardrum perforation, schedule your consultation in Auburn or Federal Way, WA, today.
